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The private silverware collection of Michael Baggott, the beloved antiques expert and star of BBC’s Flog It!, is set to be auctioned by Salisbury-based auction house Woolley & Wallis. Michael, who passed away unexpectedly in January 2024, was a renowned authority on antique silver, particularly early spoons, boxes, and provincial and continental silver. His extensive collection, comprising 450 lots, will be dispersed across four auctions, with the first section featured in the Silver & Objects of Vertu sale on July 16. The entire collection is anticipated to fetch over £200,000.
The collection showcases a remarkable array of silverware, including pieces from York, Liverpool, Chester, Dundee, Newcastle, Bristol, Exeter, and Aberdeen. Among the highlights is a George IV silver-gilt sideboard dish by Edward Thomason, a Birmingham silversmith known for his innovation and craftsmanship. This piece, dating from 1826, is estimated at £2,000-£3,000. Another standout is a rare George II provincial silver mug by Benjamin Brancker, a Liverpool silversmith whose work is highly prized by collectors. Dating from around 1730, the mug carries an estimate of £1,500-£2,000.
The collection also includes an impressive silver tankard by Benjamin Cartwright, a London silversmith active in the 18th century. Dating from 1754, the tankard is estimated at £1,500-£2,000. A Victorian novelty silver Jester pepper pot, crafted by Robert Hennell of the renowned Hennell family, adds a whimsical touch to the sale. Dating from 1868, it is expected to fetch £1,000-£1,500.
Silver spoons were a particular passion of Baggott’s, and the collection features a rare George IV provincial silver ‘Gibson-type’ medicine spoon, designed to administer medication without spillage. Made by the York-based firm Barber, Cattle and North, the spoon dates from 1829 and carries an estimate of £600-£800. Another notable piece is a George IV silver-mounted naval snuff box, inscribed with details of its creation from the wood of Northern Discovery Ships. Made by Charles Reily, a respected London silversmith, the snuff box dates from 1824 and is estimated at £600-£800.
Rupert Slingsby, a silver specialist at Woolley & Wallis, described the collection as “the most comprehensive collection of silver assayed in York ever to come onto the open market,” spanning from the late 17th century to the closure of the York assay office in 1858. This carefully curated collection reflects Baggott’s deep expertise and passion for antique silver.
Michael Baggott’s journey into the world of antiques began in his youth when he saved £22 from school dinner money to purchase a Chester silver vesta case. This early fascination led him to pursue a degree in fine arts valuation at the University of Reading, followed by a career in the silver department of a major auction house. He later became a private antique silver consultant and authored An Illustrated Guide to York Hallmarks 1776-1858, a testament to his scholarly interest in the field. He also contributed regularly to Finial, the journal of the Silver Spoon Club of Great Britain.
Baggott’s larger-than-life personality and sharp eye made him a fan favorite on Flog It!, which he joined in 2004. Over the show’s 17-year run, he endeared himself to viewers with his honesty, humor, and expertise. One of his most memorable moments on the show was valuing a rare silver trophy by Fabergé. Rob Unsworth, Head of BBC daytime and early peak commissioning, paid tribute to Baggott, describing him as “one of Flog It!’s most memorable characters” and expressing hope that his family would find comfort in the enduring popularity of his appearances on the show.
The auction of Michael Baggott’s collection not only offers a remarkable opportunity for collectors but also serves as a celebration of his life and legacy in the world of antiques. His passion for silver and his contributions to the field will undoubtedly continue to inspire and delight enthusiasts for years to come.
