Hemel employees bring in war medals and 100-year-old doll to get valued

The specialists - one a former Sotheby’s expert - hosted a drop-in clinic at Breakspear Park to offer free valuations for anyone who suspected they had something hidden.

In only two and a half hours the pair of experts valued various items including a Second World War bravery medal for repairing a bridge under fire and coins from different eras. The value of all antiques seen came to more than £5,000.

The best find of the session was an Armand Marseille Bisque doll with sleeping eyes circa. 1920. Valued between £70- £100, the real-haired toy will go to auction next month.

Dina Mistry, marketing manager for Breakspear Park, said: “We all have an item at home that we think might be worth some money, but never get around to getting it assessed. To make our employees’ lives a little easier we decided to bring in professional valuers to help ease the curiosity.

“Some people then decided to send their pieces to auction while some used the service so they could update their home insurance accurately. Sadly, there were no Van Gogh’s uncovered but there’s always next time.”

For more information on Breakspear Park and the extensive facilities it offers, please visit www.breakspearpark.com.