A memorabilia occasion

It’s that moment on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow that we all wait for. After the expert has inspected and appraised the ornate vase, Victorian brooch or Chinese gong in front of them, at last comes the revelation of – expectant pause – how much it’s worth. Cue a delighted grin on the face of the owner or, as often as not, the fixed smile that hides a sense of deep disappointment. Whatever the verdict, it all makes for a good Sunday evening’s viewing.

Thanks partly,and its TV bedfellows such as , and , our enthusiasm for antiques and collectibles has soared in recent years. And, explains Duncan McCoshan, a cataloguer at rare books specialists Peter Harrington, music memorabilia is no exception. ‘There’s definitely been a growth in interest in all aspects of music,’ he says. ‘This reflects a trend across the industry. With regards to books in particular, it has been driven by the likes of first editions, which always make news.’