Smiths Auctions have already begun taking in items for their sale on January 5 and 6. Usually, one of the most successful sales of the year it can be hard work convincing vendors that this is one of the best times to sell. Smiths have discovered that if they put the catalogue online before Christmas and then hold a sale immediately in the New Year, this extra exposure at a time when stock is scarce can have a magical effect on prices.

Smiths January sale includes a large selection of antiques including silver, gold, jewellery, watches, ceramics, furniture, pictures and collectables as well as specialist sections for stamps, postcards and coins. Entries must be consigned by the 5th of December although the deadline for stamps is the 30th of November and the coin section is already full.

A large consignment of postcards from the Malvern area includes a wide range of topographical cards as well as catering to specialist interests such as train disasters, charabanc trips, trams, buses and political events. The cards which are often of the most value depict topics of local historical interest. For example a postcard of the ‘Broadheath Blockade’ showing a printers strike with wagons loaded with stones blocking the entrance to the Linotype factory. It clearly illustrates that history repeats itself as workers today are going on strike for higher pay.

Other entries for the sale include a stunning Victorian diamond set star brooch estimated at £1000/£1500. Found on a house clearance the family were delighted when an antique leather book was found to have had the inside removed and the interior had been made into a secret box to conceal tiny valuables. Other items found in the hideaway included a Georgian silver vinaigrette, an antique amethyst and pearl brooch and an unusual rock crystal brooch inset with a Crown and cypher.

Another interesting discovery was found amongst a consignment of coins in the form of a 9 ct gold pocket watch with a luminous black dial by the Alexander Watch Co. Ltd. These Mark IV watches with eight day movements were used by pilots during WWI who needed accurate time pieces which could be read in the dark. This fine example is extremely unusual due to its gold case and although estimated at £400/£600 it may well make far more. Watches are making high prices at present along with other interesting collectables such as old fountain pens, sewing collectables, militaria and advertising items.

Smiths are inviting good quality entries for their forthcoming sales by appointment. Please telephone 01531 821776 or visit www.smithsnewentauctions.co.uk

Smiths Auctions have had an extremely busy time packing and posting out hundreds of items from their sale last week. With buyers coming from as far afield as China and Australia it takes a team of seven people working flat out to pack up and post all the parcels. Some buyers also travel long distances to collect their items including a buyer from Southern Ireland and another from France.