John Foster, a prominent antiques specialist and regular valuer on Antiques Roadshow, dreams of appraising one of the world’s rarest treasures: a double leopard gold coin valued at £700,000. Only three such coins are known to exist, making this six-figure find an elusive prize for collectors and experts alike.
Expertise in Diverse Antiques
Foster serves on the show’s Miscellaneous team, specializing in furniture, antiquities, British coins, scrimshaw, medical instruments, classic cars, and motorbikes. His broad knowledge equips him to evaluate an array of unique items brought by enthusiasts.
The Coveted Double Leopard Coin
In a recent interview, Foster highlighted the double leopard gold coin as his ultimate Roadshow discovery. Struck in the 13th century, these Edward III coins command extraordinary value due to their scarcity and historical significance. Sources confirm their auction prices reach £700,000, underscoring their appeal to numismatists.
Distinguished Career Path
Foster launched his career in 1989 at Phillips auction house. He advanced to director at Dreweatt Neate and partner at Sworders Fine Art Auctioneers before establishing himself as an independent valuer. On the show, he has assessed remarkable artifacts, including a rare set of 19th-century porcelain dentures and a corkscrew crafted from timber of the original London Bridge.
Roots of a Lifelong Passion
Foster’s fascination with antiques traces back to childhood summers spent diving on shipwrecks alongside his father, igniting a lifelong pursuit of historical relics.
