Antiques Roadshow guest stuns host by refusing to sell pens worth huge sum despite 'never using them'

Antiques Roadshow graced our TV screens again on Sunday (6 April) with a fresh episode from Ebrington Square in Derry/Londonderry, Northern Ireland.

One visitor brought along a pristine set of Waterman ballpoint pens, a gift from her father who served in the Dutch Merchant Navy. She confessed to never having used them despite their sentimental value.

Expert Mark Hill delved into the pens' history, highlighting their "original" status and the significance of the intricate details carved into them.

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Intrigued, he asked if she'd ever consider using them, only to be met with a firm: "No. Just never thought about it."

Mark couldn't hide his admiration, saying: "Well, I can certainly tell you it beats the average ball point pen. I haven't seen a set like this for a very, very long time."

He speculated on their survival story, suggesting: "I wonder where he got them from, and how they survived being torpedoed at least once. Because, if these date from the late 1930s, I'm guessing he must have somehow stored them somewhere, and then given them to you."

The valuation left the guest astounded as Mark announced: "You stored them so wisely, and I'm glad you did! In the original box, four to six hundred pounds."

Her reaction was priceless, as she responded: "Really? ! They're lovely. I wouldn't sell them."

This left Mark visibly surprised, prompting him to question her decision, but she remained steadfast, reports .

Mark, the expert on the show, suggested to the guest: "Get them restored, and use them, and write a letter with them. They are stunning pieces of Art Deco design by one of the world's greatest vintage fountain pen makers, superb things. Thank you so much!"

The guest responded with delight, saying: "Well done, Dad. Yes, they're beautiful!".

In other parts of Sunday's episode, experts were left in awe by the variety of items brought in from Northern Ireland.

Ronnie Archer-Morgan encountered a collector who had gathered over a thousand compact purses, while Gordon Foster was shown a hurling trophy. Additionally, John Sandon discovered a pair of plates dating back to the 18th century.

Antiques Roadshow airs on BBC One on Sundays at 7pm