An Antiques Roadshow expert could hardly contain his amazement when he was presented with an artefact connected to Queen Elizabeth II.
The deeply moving moment featured in a special edition of the long-running BBC series, which revisited the life and legacy of the late monarch in honour of what would have been her birthday on June 21st.
The programme, fronted by Fiona Bruce, showcased rare pieces linked to the Queen and her family, offering viewers a fascinating glimpse into royal history, her travels, and the Commonwealth.
During one segment, expert Geoffrey Munn was afforded the privilege of examining two “priceless” artefacts belonging to the Queen, currently housed at the Guildhall in London.
He said: “You have brought me two indescribably rare and wonderful objects that are absolutely humming with majesty and importance.”
A man who appeared to be the custodian of the sceptre and sword explained that they had accompanied the late Queen on her travels and featured in some of the most significant moments of her reign, reports the Liverpool Echo.
At one point, the expert became visibly overcome with emotion, describing the piece as “staggering” while expressing his gratitude to the man for allowing him to view the items.
Elsewhere in the programme, Geoffrey also spoke with a woman whose mother had met the Queen during her visit to Canada. Recounting her story, she said: “My mother was there when the Queen arrived at the royal suite, she gave her a curtsey and then the next day, when the Queen was leaving, and all had gone very well, she was presented with this lighter.”
Geoffrey replied: “Yes, how marvellous, and it’s a Dunhill lighter and it has the Queen’s cypher on there.”
The woman also received a heartfelt letter from Lady Susan Hussey. She revealed that she had written to the Queen following her mother’s passing, to which Lady Susan responded, conveying that the Queen still fondly recalled how welcoming they had been during her visit to Canada.
The episode forms part of a broader tribute marking what would have been the Queen’s 100th birthday, with the BBC broadcasting a series of commemorative programmes honouring her life and reign.
Prior to her death, Queen Elizabeth II had forged a legacy defined by stability, duty, and an extraordinary record of service.
Having reigned for over 70 years, she became an enduring symbol of continuity throughout decades of political, social, and cultural transformation across the UK and the Commonwealth.
Renowned for her steadfast dedication to public service, she carried out thousands of engagements and upheld a deep respect for tradition, while carefully guiding the monarchy into a modern age.
Antiques Roadshow airs Sundays at 8pm on BBC One.