Chest used to store treasures up for auction

Auctioneer Ann Thorp said the strongbox had a value of £1,000 - but it could sell for more

A 17th Century chest once used to store treasures is going up for auction after being rediscovered in a Devon home.

Dartmoor Auctions is set to sell the iron-plated strongbox on Saturday after it was left in a coal shed at a Okehampton home for several years.

Antique experts said the trunk, which known as an Armada chest and believed to be made in Germany, has an integrated locking system and would have been used to store valuable items such as gold or silver.

Auctioneer Ann Thorp valued the item at about £1,000 but felt it would cost up to £9,000 if it was sold at an antiques shop.

Ms Thorp said: "If two people want it on the day and really start fighting for it, then the sky's the limit.

"Although it sounds expensive, it's still going to be a real bargain on the day."

The strongbox would have been used to store a family's valuable items such as gold or silver

The box has two padlock clasps and an internal eight locking bolts system operated by a key.

It also has a false keyhole with the operational one hidden.

The owner, who wants to remain anonymous, had to search for the missing key after discovering the trunk's worth.

Diana Tigwell, valuer at Dartmoor Auctions, said it was not until some carpet covering the box was taken off until she realised what a remarkable find it was.

"Me and the owner talked about it and she said 'what do they make? A lot of money?'," Ms Tigwell said.

"I said it could be £30 or so for a decent trunk at the moment if it's just normal.

"She then lifted the carpet off and instantly I knew this is not your normal trunk, it's something far more exciting."