The final auction of the private silver collection belonging to former BBC antiques expert Michael Baggott has realised a total of £112,891. Baggott, who passed away at the age of 51 in January 2025, was celebrated for his knowledge of antique silver, particularly early spoons, boxes, and both provincial and continental pieces. The recent auction took place at Woolley and Wallis and exceeded its estimated range of £71,100 to £97,700.
This sale followed two previous auctions that collectively brought in over £200,000 for Baggott’s extensive collection. Notable pieces included a 1672 Charles II provincial two-handled porringer crafted by silversmith Thomas Mangy, which sold for £3,810. The porringer, a shallow bowl historically used for consuming soft foods, was a symbol of status and was often given as a christening gift or used for serving treats.
Another significant item was an engraved silver dish from the West Country, dating back to 1620, made by silversmith Edward Harsell. This dish sold for £5,334, surpassing its top estimated value of £4,000. The auction also featured a silver ingot dating from June 1840, which fetched £762, well above its estimated value of £300. Unlike decorative coins, ingots served practical purposes and were primarily used for storage or trade.
The ingot, produced at Mr. Treffry’s Smelting House in Par, coincided with a peak period for Cornish metal production. It was accompanied by a handwritten note stating it was the first successful silver output from the smelting house, created by separating silver from copper mined at Fowey Consol.
Baggott’s collection comprised over 550 pieces, with a timeline extending from the late 17th century to 1858. Silver specialist Rupert Slingsby referred to this collection as “the most comprehensive collection of silver assayed in York ever to come onto the open market.”
Baggott’s passion for antiques sprouted in his youth when he saved £22 from school lunch money to buy a Chester silver vesta case. He later worked at Christie’s and served as head of silver at Sotheby’s in Billingshurst. Throughout his career, he became a published author, releasing titles such as *An Illustrated Guide To York Hallmarks 1776-1858* and *As Found: A Lifetime In Antiques*. His expertise gained wider recognition through his appearances on the BBC daytime show *Flog It!* in the 2000s, where he provided valuations for various silver items.
Baggott’s legacy in the world of antiques continues to be celebrated through the significant sales of his collection, reflecting both his expertise and the enduring appeal of the items he cherished.
