How to value your family heirlooms

BARGAIN HUNT'S CAROLINE HAWLEY OFFERS UP HER TOP TIPS. BY CAMILLA FOSTER

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SORTING through clutter in the attic or sifting through belongings after a loved one passes away can feel overwhelming but hidden among the ordinary may be objects of real value and historical interest.

Whether you're driven by curiosity, considering insurance or a potential sale, or simply hoping to honour the memory attached to a cherished item, understanding its true worth is an essential part of preserving your family’s legacy.

To help navigate this process, we've turned to antiques expert Caroline Hawley. A familiar face on the presenting team of BBC antiques show Bargain Hunt, Caroline also owns and runs Hawleys Auctioneers in North Cave and Beverley, East Yorkshire, alongside her husband John.

Here she answers some of the most asked questions about how to evaluate the worth of family heirlooms.

What types of items might be valuable?

Don’t dismiss any old toys that are in mint condition.

"When you are clearing out the back of the cupboard, things like old toys, games, Barbies [especially with the resurgence following the release of the movie] and Matchbox toys are all really popular," says Caroline.

"If they're boxed and in good or mint condition, that’s always a great thing. It makes them much more valuable if they haven’t been played with. There is also a lot of interest in Pokemon cards right now."

Plus, designer watches are always a hit.