Foundation for Montana History appraisal fair coming to Helena on Oct. 14

This article originally appeared in the Helena Independent Record on October 5, 2023 by Phil Drake.

“Treasure State residents are encouraged to bring their "treasure" to The Montana Antiques Appraisal Fair in Helena on Oct. 14 and get an expert opinion about its value.

The event, hosted by the Foundation for Montana History, is at Holter Art Museum, 12 E. Lawrence St.

Appraisal tickets are $25 per item. There is a limit of two appraisal items per person (or four per couple). Tickets are available in time slots between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Spectators are free and encouraged to experience the Holter art galleries during the appraisal fair.

Please no firearms, chemicals or minerals. Typical items brought in for appraisal include paintings, sculptures, textiles, photographs, Western and Native Americana, dolls, sports memorabilia and other interesting or possibly valuable objects.

Go to www.mthistory.org/events for more information.

In years past, celebrity appraiser Timothy Gordon and auctioneer Grant Zahajko have examined historical items that include arts, rare collectibles, classic toys and invaluable pieces of Western history, some of which Gordon has called: “Truly irreplaceable.”

Officials with the nonprofit Foundation for Montana History said all proceeds will go to its statewide historic preservation grant program. The foundation has brought this annual event to a different Montana community since 2017.

“Any given day something incredible can walk through the door and that’s what the carrot is for appraisers,” says Gordon. He and Zahajko are excited to donate their time to see the treasures of the Queen City.

Contact Zachary at 406-449-3770 or zachary@mthistory.org with any questions.

Special thanks to sponsors D.A. Davidson and Northwest Drywall in Helena for making this historic event possible.”