$4 thrift shop cup turns out to be rare rhino-horn treasure worth $75,640
A shopper discovered a unique Chinese libation cup at a thrift shop in Sydney, Australia. They bought the cup for A$4 despite its significant chip. After assessing the item, a Sotheby's specialist appraised it at A$20,000 to A$30,000. The item was later auctioned for A$75,640, significantly exceeding the original purchase price. This event highlights the potential hidden value in thrift store…
A thrift shop in Sydney, Australia, yielded a rare treasure when a shopper discovered a cup with a significant chip for just A$4. Initially, the cup seemed unremarkable, but its true value became apparent to a specialist. The cup was later auctioned for an astonishing A$75,640. The anonymous buyer, who usually frequents local op shops, recognized the cup's uniqueness and bought it.
Ann Roberts, a Sotheby's consultant specializing in Asian art, confirmed it was a Chinese libation cup carved from rhinoceros horn, dating back to the 17th or 18th century. Despite the extensive chip, Roberts set an estimate of A$20,000 to A$30,000. The final price at auction was more than twice Sotheby's top estimate and 15,500 times the original price paid. The buyer was delighted with the remarkable outcome.
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