Secret Life of the Auction House
2025– · Quest · 60 min · 1 season
S01E08 · Casino Royale, Sweet Shop, Shrovetide Ball
Fri, 19 Sept, 7:00 am
A first edition James Bond book sets the auction room alight. Plus, a confectionery shop goes under the hammer.
About
Featuring exclusive access, riveting stories, surprising revelations, and jaw-dropping hammer prices, Secret Life of the Auction House goes behind the scenes at one of Britain's busiest auction houses to capture all the drama, passion, and charisma as antiques specialist Charles Hanson and a small army of experts examine, appraise, strategize, and sell to the highest bidder—all while making historic discoveries and keeping an eye out for fakes.
Every treasure has a unique story to tell. And with hundreds of thousands of objects coming through the door every year, Charles and the team bring long-forgotten relics, cherished heirlooms, attic discoveries, and metal detector finds to life
Episodes
- E01
Everest, Chopper, Harry Potter
Fri, 1 Aug· 60 minA behind-the-scenes look at one of Britain's most fascinating auction houses. Featuring a rare Harry Potter paperback and memorabilia from the first ascent of Everest in 1953.
- E02
Football Flag, Prison Ledger
Fri, 8 Aug· 60 minThe team researches a flag said to have flown during England's 1966 World Cup win. A Victorian book of police mug shots reveals surprising insights.
- E03
LV Trunk, Vampire Slayer Kit
Fri, 15 Aug· 60 minA designer trunk found in a junk shop, a 40-year-old slice of royal wedding cake and possible Victorian vampire slaying kit go under the hammer.
- E04
Queen Victoria Items, Hand Bills
Fri, 22 Aug· 60 minQueen Victoria's belongings go under the hammer, and music expert Claire handles some legendary Rolling Stones memorabilia.
- E05
Peter Stringfellow's Throne, Lego Sets
Fri, 29 Aug· 60 minCharles sells iconic items from the late club owner Peter Stringfellow. Plus, a massive haul of Lego keeps toy valuer Mark busy.
- E06
Horseferry Road Furniture, Corgi Cars
Fri, 5 Sept· 60 minA stainless-steel sculpture, a load of antique furniture and a collection of 1960s Corgi toy cars all pose challenges to the logistics team.
- E07
Gold Chain, Cinema Posters, Alien Book
Fri, 12 Sept· 60 minJewellery expert Helen has her hands full with a massive gold chain. Plus, book expert Jim dusts off a rare, 'out of this world' scientific book.
- E08
Casino Royale, Sweet Shop, Shrovetide Ball
Fri, 19 Sept· 60 minA first edition James Bond book sets the auction room alight. Plus, a confectionery shop goes under the hammer.
Cast
Charles Hanson
Charles Hanson
John Thomson
Narrator