Author Archives: Benny

Silver Or Pewter? A Practical Guide For Collectors

Comparing hallmarks on antique metal to identify silver or pewter”

When you handle old tableware, tankards, trinket boxes, or cutlery, you might pause and wonder Silver Or Pewter? Although the two metals look similar at a glance, they behave so differently that the answer becomes clear once you know what to check. Because collectors rely on accuracy, these simple tests help you reach the right […]

Collecting British Error Coins – Minting Mistakes Make History

A digital banner image showing various British coins, including pound and two-pound pieces, arranged with a magnifying glass in soft lighting. The text reads “Collecting British Error Coins” against a clean background, representing minting mistakes and coin collecting in the UK.

Sometimes the most interesting coins are the ones that went wrong. A small slip in the minting process can turn an ordinary coin into something collectors get excited about. These are known as British Error Coins, and they sit at the curious intersection of accident and artistry. Every mis-strike tells a story. Whether it’s a […]

Chribska Glass – The Art of Mid-Century Czech Design

Featured image showing a colourful Chribska Glass vase in red, amber, and blue tones beside a portrait of designer Josef Hospodka. The background is a warm terracotta colour with the text “Chribska Glass: The Art of Mid-Century Czech Design.”

Few pieces of mid-century glass capture attention quite like Chribska Glass. Known for its bold colours, fluid shapes, and sculptural forms, this glassware combines craftsmanship and imagination in equal measure. It holds an important place in Czech design history and remains one of the most recognisable examples of 20th-century art glass. Collectors around the world […]

Collecting Tarot and Oracle Cards – A Guide for Seekers

Photorealistic image of tarot and oracle card decks displayed on a wooden table, including the Goddess Arcana box, gold foil tarot cards, guidebook, and cards such as The Lovers and The Sun.

The Enduring Fascination with Tarot and Oracle For centuries, people have turned to tarot as a source of wisdom and guidance. Oracle decks, though a more recent creation, have gained popularity for their flexibility and creative themes. Together, they represent one of the most intriguing areas of spiritual practice, especially for those interested in collecting […]

Antiques & Homes on Antiques Road Trip: Blofield in the Spotlight

Antiques And Homes Blofield Norfolk with Irita Manning on Antiques Road Trip

We were thrilled for our tiny shop to be featured on the BBC’s much-loved Antiques Road Trip. The episode followed experts as they toured Suffolk and Norfolk in search of standout pieces, culminating in a stop at Antiques & Homes, Blofield. A Warm Welcome to Blofield Cameras rolled as presenter Irita Marriot arrived at our […]

Exploring Tribal Drums: Origins, Meanings, and Modern Uses

Four tribal drums displayed on a wooden surface against a warm brown background, featuring hand-painted designs of a mandala, hamsa, tree of life, and Buddha face, with the text “Exploring Tribal Drums – Origins, Meanings, and Modern Uses” above.

Tribal drums have been part of human culture for thousands of years. From ceremonial gatherings in Africa to shamanic rituals across Asia and Europe, these instruments carry both musical and symbolic weight. Today, they remain popular as instruments for performance, spiritual practice, and as cultural works of art. If you are curious about the story […]

Collecting Bullion – Starting Small

A collection of gold and silver bullion displayed on a dark wooden surface, including a 1-ounce Suisse gold bar, two gold coins, and several silver Britannia and American Eagle coins, all arranged neatly and captured in warm lighting."

Why You Don’t Need to Spend Big to Begin Collecting bullion might sound like something only investors or wealthy collectors do, but that’s far from the truth. In reality, anyone can start small. With just a little guidance, you can enter the world of precious metals without breaking the bank. Starting with modest amounts makes […]

British Silver Coins – The story Pre 1946

British silver coins a victorian crown and the union flag

Collecting British Silver Coins Pre-1946: A Practical Guide British Silver Coins have a long and complex history. If you’re interested in collecting Silver Coins, understanding their development before 1946 helps you make better choices. This guide walks you through that journey, from ancient times to the end of the silver standard. You’ll learn what to […]

Fabergé Jewellery: One of the Antiques Roadshow’s Best Finds

antiques roadshow's best finds Faberge jewellery

It’s not every day that something discovered at the bottom of a handbag ends up being one of the Antiques Roadshow’s best finds—but that’s exactly what happened when a guest brought in a small wooden box with a mysterious jewel inside. What looked like a charming piece of costume jewellery turned out to be a […]