BBC Antiques Roadshow guests blown away by eye-watering value of tiny teapot

Duncan Campbell was faced with evaluating "the nicest teapot" he's ever seen during the latest instalment Antiques Roadshow and it's owners were left gobsmacked

Antiques Roadshow expert Duncan Campbell was faced with evaluating "the nicest teapot" he's ever seen during the latest instalment of the BBC show.

The episode which aired on Sunday (March 30) night saw host Fiona Bruce present the popular programme from Swanage Pier in Dorset where highlights include a famous pantomime dame's costumes, a battered watch with a big price tag and valuable Star Wars memorabilia.

However it was a tiny silver teapot which caught the attention of Duncan. At first glance the item looked like it could be a child's toy but in fact, it is actually worth over £12,000.

The teapot fitted perfectly in the palm of a hand and Duncan was clearly impressed. He said: "This is the nicest teapot I've certainly ever seen on Antiques Roadshow and arguably I've ever seen.

"I absolutely adore it and I am more than a little bit envious."

The teapot had been passed on to the guests by a great uncle and aunt and Duncan revealed it was a miniature bullet teapot made by Paul de Lamerie who he called "the most sought-after silversmith in English silversmithing."

Paul de Lamerie did not often make miniature products and Duncan said it was "remarkably uncommon" to own one. It was made in 1728 and valued at least £12,000 causing a shocked "wow" from the guests who had brought the teapot in.

Duncan added: "It is absolutely beautiful. If I could take home one piece of silver I could take home from all the roadshows I've ever done, it would be this one."

The owners of the teapot said: "I knew it was special but it's nice to have that confirmed."

Antiques Roadshow debuted in 1971 and sees passionate collectors pedal their wares across the country for valuation from top experts.

Several BBC specials, like last year’s D-Day extravaganza and A History of Food show, have since aired, alongside dedicated spin-off shows like like Priceless Antiques Roadshow and Antiques Road Trip.

Antiques Roadshow airs on BBC One and episodes can also be streamed on BBC iPlayer