Helpful Tips, Good Laughs at ECA Appraisal Roadshow March 29, 2025

A 1928 silver-plated cocktail shaker in airplane form was the highlight of the Appraisal Roadshow—voted “most unusual item” and valued at roughly $14,500 retail, according to appraiser Todd Peenstra. “These Art Deco-style shakers made in Germany by J.A. Henckels are quite rare and worth a lot, especially if they have all the parts,” Todd said. The shaker’s owner, David, was a small child when a family friend gave it to him as a toy.

“I remember sitting on his floor and playing with it while my parents visited,” said David, who pointed out that the wings are actually flasks and the undercarriage contains spoons and cups. In an unusual twist, another man later brought in a zeppelin-shaped Henckels shaker designed specifically for whiskey sours. “I’ve never appraised one of these cocktail shakers at an event, let alone two,” Todd said.

It was the third year for this popular fundraising event, which vied with perfect summery weather and the city’s annual film festival. The day was split into morning and afternoon sessions and the items appraised included artwork, porcelain, silver, and vases. Notable objects included Roman glass from an archeological dig site in Israel, a Roman coin from the time of Claudius, a sterling silver Tiffany porringer, a Victorian bracelet bought at the Paris flea market, a German policeman doll made in Switzerland before WWII, and a limited-edition print signed by Picasso.

A lively showman, Todd generated laughs while at the same time giving helpful tips. An object’s value is mainly determined by rarity, beauty, and demand, he explained. Signed original art is more valuable than prints or etchings. Ceramic and porcelain wares marked with the country of origin are likely to have been manufactured after 1890. Gold and silver objects are selling at an all-time high and will probably be recycled into bars.

For more than four decades, Todd has appraised vintage items for world-renowned collectors and everyday owners throughout the U.S. and Europe. Roadshow attendees paid $15 for each item appraised and ECA also raised funds via cash donations and raffles.Todd donated his time, the Eastport Democratic Club donated the venue, and local businesses (listed below) donated coupons and gift cards for raffle winners. The proceeds support youth and educational programs via the ECA Grants Program. Thanks to everyone who pitched in!