The Treasure Hunters Roadshow will be in International Falls next week
Could there be treasure hidden in International Falls? The Treasure Hunters Roadshow is making its way to town to find out.
For five days, Oct. 11-15, modern day “treasure hunters” will set up post in the AmericInn banquet rooms welcoming area residents — at no cost — to bring in any old items to be valued, sold or discussed.
THR has been traveling the world since 1996 in search of treasures of all shapes, sizes and values. Over the last decade, the show has purchased more than $250 million worth of precious metals, collectibles, antiques and historical items.
Matthew Enright, the vice president of media for the organization, said he is looking forward to the trip to International Falls.
“We have uncovered some of our rarest collectibles in smalls towns,” he said.
During their “hunt” in the Falls, THR experts will visit with show goers about any items they bring in, including coins and paper currency issued before 1965, toys of all sorts, jewelry, war memorabilia, old musical instruments — anything, Enright said.
Using the roadshow’s vast resources, experts will be able to accurately identify any items brought before them. They will be able to answer questions regarding the item’s age, place of origin and value.
Following identification of the item, experts will then check an online database to contact potential buyers to determine an offer. Visitors have the option to sell or keep their item following the offer. Anyone choosing to sell their treasures will be paid on the spot with only 10 percent going back to the roadshow for services. The roadshow is a place where anyone in the community can connect with collectors from around the globe, according to the organization. Junk from International Falls might be treasure in Europe.
However, despite the dollar signs and excitement of selling valuable items, experts want to remind their guests that there is no obligation to sell — the option is there only if they want.
To help ensure guests experience the show at its best, Enright and other representatives urge people not to clean any items they’re bringing in to avoid any unwanted damage and loss of value.
Enright summed up anticipation for the event simply, “Keep an open mind. You never know if you could have the next hidden treasure.”
