A SERIES of military antiques have defied predictions and scooped thousands of pounds for their delighted owners, with Ayrshire tipped as “a hot bed of military antiquities”.

The items, which include Victorian dirks, military belt plates, buckles and a vintage telescope, featured in McTear’s January Works of Art Auction.

Consigned by an anonymous Mauchline seller, the two Victorian dirks prompted a fierce bidding war and eventually sold for £2,000 each - 10 times their estimated value.

Cumnock Chronicle: The rare dirk fetched £2,000The rare dirk fetched £2,000

The ceremonial daggers, which date to the late 19th century and feature basket weave carved handles with amber glass pommels, attracted global interest, with one selling to a buyer in Australia.

Other Ayrshire items included a selection of Scottish Regimental belt plates which were consigned by a seller in Symington.

Cumnock Chronicle: McTear's - collection of belt plates sells for £2200

The impressive collection, which was bought for £2,200 by an English buyer, included a total of 27 items from the 72nd, 74th and 92nd Highlanders, the Royal Scots and Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, amongst others.

Magda Ketterer from McTear’s, said: “It’s clear from our January auctions that Ayrshire is a hot bed of military antiquities.

“Memorabilia associated with the Scottish regiments is much sought after so we knew there would be a lot of interest in the sale.

“Needless to say each seller was delighted with the results.

“Our online sales platforms are allowing clients to reach potential buyers in over 100 countries. From our experience lots of people have items hidden away in cupboards and boxes that they didn’t realise were valuable.

“Our auction advice is free and no-obligation so it is definitely worth having a look and speaking to one of our experts.”

For more, visit https://www.mctears.co.uk/whats-it-worth