the treasure
Silver, marcasite and onyx rhinoceros beetle brooch
the story
I am drawn to all things with an air of history about them, and that’s how I acquired this odd pin. It’s a rhinoceros beetle made of onyx and marcasite that I purchased about 20 years ago at the big antique and collectible show at the St. Charles Convention Center. I was there looking for political pins, but when I saw this interesting item, I fell in love with it. I don’t wear pins at all, I just liked it because I imagined it being from the Roaring Twenties!
what the professionals say
Insect brooches can be quite appealing to buyers, and there is certainly a market for silver jewelry. We have had a whole auction of this type in Chicago!
the value
A piece like this would have a value of $200 at auction.
this months’ expert | Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, headquartered in Chicago with appraisal and auction services in Clayton
Have a treasure in your attic you’d like evaluated? Contact tellus@townandstyle.com so we can connect you with an appraiser and feature your item in Town&Style!