Newbury auctioneers discover amazing collection of great objects at bungalow of late 90-year-old recluse

An eclectic mix of collectable items including diving discovered at the home of a deceased lifelong collector are going up for auction at Special Auction Services in Newbury on Tuesday, February 4, and Wednesday, February 5.

The 400 lots were identified at a small two-bedroomed bungalow in Oxfordshire when experts at SAS were called in to undertake a probate valuation.

The items range from diving helmets, militaria, and car mascots to studio pottery and tribal art and were collected over several years by a 90-year-old recluse.

SAS director and TV expert Thomas Forrester said: “As experienced auctioneers going to a house such as this isn’t as uncommon as you may think.

“However, in all my years of attending properties this one will remain in my memory as it continued to surprise us with the discovery of an amazing array of great quality objects.”

The large number of items means that the remainder of the collection will be sold throughout 2025.

This auction comprises six diving helmets set to make £11,000; a vintage one worn by the US Navy carries an estimate of £1,500-£2,500, another from the French Navy and an early 20th-century Siebe Gorman & C divers helmet could make £1,500-£2,000 each.

Highlights of the 96 car mascots include a Lalique Glass one for £800 - £1,200, a rare ‘Pierrot’ car mascot (£300-£500), a ‘rude devil’ mascot (£400-£600) as well as a rare 1920s ‘Elephant Egg’ one that is estimated at £300-£500.

The items were kept throughout the house as well as in the loft and garage.

Unusual discoveries include a Victorian Black Powder Cannon estimated at £300-£500, a Brooklands Aero-Club Car Badge (£300-£400), a Dent’s Improved Liquid Boat Compass (£500-£800) and a collection of more than 80 original bronze ship’s plaques.

The auction also contains a single owner collection of irons and ironing accessories dating from the 18th century to the mid-20th century which could make £4,000.

https://www.specialauctionservices.com/

SAS Newbury is located at Plenty Close, Newbury, RG14 5RL.