BBC Antiques Roadshow's jaw-dropping valuations - £1million FA Cup to Star Wars helmet

Since its debut in 1977, Antiques Roadshow has captivated audiences with its unique blend of history and treasure hunting, continuing to draw viewers with fresh episodes even now.

The beloved BBC programme showcases individuals bringing their cherished possessions for evaluation by experts, ranging from art and crockery to historical artefacts and quirky collectibles.

While some treasures turn out to be of little value, there are those that surprise both the owner and audience with their significant worth. The show has undergone various changes in format over time, yet it's the intriguing histories and the staggering valuations that keep fans tuning in.

Here's a glimpse at nine of the most valuable finds featured on Antiques Roadshow.

Signed first editions by Beatrix Potter

In a memorable 2017 episode, an individual presented a collection of Beatrix Potter's first editions, signed by the author herself. Despite their worn condition and missing spines, these books were appraised by expert Farahar, who valued them at a stunning £25,000.

Shakespearean notebook

Another remarkable discovery was made when a guest brought in a small notebook in 2017. This tiny tome, filled with reviews of Shakespeare's plays, was identified as a 17th-century relic.

Containing "scientific scholarly notes" from Shakespeare's own era, this notebook was estimated to command upwards of £30,000 if placed under the hammer.

Document signed by Queen Elizabeth I

A guest once presented a unique document from 1563 on the show. Despite appearing to be merely an old piece of paper, it was in fact extraordinary as it carried the signature of Queen Elizabeth I.

The document was a licence, issued to permit an Elizabethan adventurer to seek out gunpowder. Book specialist Clive Farahar was astounded by the precious item and estimated its worth at a staggering £35,000.

Star Wars helmet

In 2014, a collector showcased an artefact from the Star Wars films on the Roadshow. The item was a helmet - an original prop from the initial 1977 film and it was valued at an impressive £50,000.

Van Dyck Painting

In 2013, Fiona Bruce recognised a painting that appeared to be an authentic Van Dyck. Purchased for a mere £400 from an antique store by a clergyman, it was later revealed to be worth £400,000 and subsequently displayed worldwide.

Jardiniere by Christofle

Previously used as a plant holder, expert Eric Knowles disclosed that the item was actually a French 'Japonisme' crafted in 1874. Found in Cleethorpes in 1991, the Jardiniere was later sold for £560,000 in September 2012.

Maquette of the Angel of the North

One of the priciest items ever featured on Antiques Roadshow was a prototype model of the globally renowned Angel of the North sculpture by Anthony Gormley.

Specialists appraised the artwork at £1 million, marking the first seven-figure valuation in the history of Antiques Roadshow.

Faberge flower

Two British soldiers previously featured on the show to have a Faberge flower, a possession of the British army, evaluated by an expert.

The artefact, made from gold, jade, diamonds and silver, stood on a carved rock crystal base. The soldiers were astounded when Faberge jewellery specialist Geoffrey Munn estimated the unique piece at a whopping £1million.

FA Cup

In 2016, former Leeds United player Eddie Gray brought in a retired silver cup. After being bought at auction in 2005, it was donated to the National Football Museum.

Alastair Dickenson valued the trophy at approximately £1 million during its on-air appraisal.

Antiques Roadshow is available to watch on BBC iPlayer