PROVIDED Famed Antiques Roadshow appraiser Peter Curran will again lead the ARC Antiques Appraisal event.

Popular Antiques Roadshow appraiser Peter Curran will again host the

5th Annual Antique Appraisal Day event to benefit The Animal Refuge

Center Saturday, Jan. 21.

The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza

Hotel in Fort Myers. For $25, you can bring any two items to be

appraised.

In the past, several patrons have had appraisals of tens of thousands

of dollars. They bring everything from jewelry to clocks, fine art and

other items. Last year, a local man brought a collection of vintage

beer cans he had as decorations in his barn, to learn they were worth

hundreds of dollars each.

The event benefits ARC, the area’s largest no kill animal shelter.

“Right now, we are taking care of over 450 animals,” said ARC

Treasurer Betty Hughes. “It’s still a day-to-day challenge to provide

for that many animals in need.

“It’s one of my favorite events,” she added. “Everyone has that little

brooch inherited from a beloved family member, or some other unique

item. They cherished it for sentimental value but are always curious

about the financial value.”

She recalls a few different items that brought high values.

“There was hair comb from Brazil that was worth several thousand, and a silver tea set that was appraised extremely high in value,” she said.

Curran has been hosting the event for the last five years.

“I’m a local resident,” he said. “I live on Sanibel and in Westport, Conn.”

Last year, he appraised a painting that is worth over $10,000 for a

Southwest Florida resident.

Curran will be joined by respected area appraisers, including Jane De

Lisser, who has a 13-year history as a local independent appraiser.

She appraises art and antiques, and has worked with both the famed

Christie’s and Sotheby’s.

Henry Eckert will also be on hand. He specializes in 19th and early

20th century artwork, and has a private gallery in the area.

“I’m excited to expand our venue to include more jewelry appraisers

this year,” said Hughes.

They include Brad and Colbi Congress from Bradley’s Jewelers. Brad is

also a certified gemologist, and they both specialize in estate

jewelry as well as contemporary.

Last year, there was a huge crowd right at the opening.

“It is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., so we recommend staggered arrival times,” said Hughes.

The appraisers spend time talking to patrons individually about these

pieces, which makes it even more special experience.

“We deeply appreciate all the time and skills of our appraisers,” Hughes said.

You can bring as many items as you like with two item appraisals for

$25.

“The appraisal fee benefits ARC 100 percent,” she said.

The Crowne Plaza Hotel is located in Fort Myers at 13051 Bell Tower Dr.

ARC itself is located behind the Lee Civic Center at 18011 Old

Bayshore Rd., and has over 450 animals available for adoption now.

Call 731-3535 to make an appointment to see the animals.

For more information on the event, call 841-0810.