In the first Treasure Hunters, we sent Jeff Brazier, Alison Hammond, Amy Childs and Louie Spence out to an antiques fair with a handful of cash and collectables expert, Tracy Martin.

But who will bag the best bargain and make the most at a nail-biting auction?

Tracy Martin's treasure hunting tips

  • Look for items that are quirky or unusual as they have interest with collectors.
  • Buy things that are evocative of an era so 1920s flapper girl accessories, Mid Century jewellery and 1950s/60s retro.
    Look for Vintage toys that bring back nostalgic memories as there is a massive collectors market for these.
  • Even modern items can sell well if they are popular with collectors so it doesn't have to be antique - just collectable
  • Steer clear of pieces in the style of as these are usually modern reproductions
    Always talk to the dealer especially if a specialist as they have knowledge in their field and can tell you more about the items they are selling.
    However remember dealers and experts cannot know everything about everything so take a punt
  • Always go with your gut instinct.
    Check condition, no tears or stains to clothing, chips, cracks or restoration to glass or ceramics because can devalue an item.
  • Do your research before selling via books, internet sites and magazines. Make sure you know exactly what you have to sell.
  • When buying to sell at auction find out what sells well in the area that it is being sold, so has local interest.
  • If you have bought something specialist then seek out the best place to sell it.
  • Haggle, Haggle and Haggle but remember the dealer needs to make a living too so don't take advantage. 10% below ticket price is recommended but if you can get a little more go for it.

Tracy's top treaure hunting finds

  • A couple bought a cat and mouse teapot for £2 at carboot sale and after research discovered it was rare Minton 1887 teapot which sold at auction for £32,400
  • A Charles Ashbee claret jug was bought for under £10 and sold for £8,500
  • A man's Jaeger Le Coultre watch bought for £1 and sold for £3,000
  • A job lot of 1960s Sindy dolls were bought for £18 and sold for £1,000 on internet auction.

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