Billy's 3 Most Prized Auction Items

What does Billy treasure most? These his favorite auction purchases.

Related To:

What does Billy Leroy from Baggage Battles treasure most? These are the auction purchases that are closest to his heart.
1. French Cavalry Helmet & Breastplate
This heavy French cavalry helmet and breastplate is from 1845. It's very rare to find this set in such an untouched condition; it hasn’t been polished since it was out of service. When the French wore this into combat it was polished and bright … dressed to kill, I guess. The helmet has a long horsehair ponytail … this was not only decorative but also served the purpose of preventing a saber blow from chopping off the wearer. In today's market this matching numbered set can bring up to $8,000. I bought it in a New Jersey auction house called Manion's 20 years ago for $1,200.
2. World War I British Tankers Mask
This World War I British tankers mask is extremely rare. I bought it at a Toronto estate auction for $700. What’s so unique about this mask is its medieval appearance. It was worn by the crew of English tanks to prevent shrapnel wounds. I have only seen 2 in my life as an antique dealer, and it is worth $3,000 to $4,000.
3. Raven
This oversized taxidermy raven is in perfect condition, and has a wingspan of 33 inches. I bought it on eBay 12 years ago for $300. For some strange reason, ravens are hard to find, especially this size. My wife, being an Edgar Allan Poe fan, loves this raven. I have several offers from fellow dealers and collectors to buy the raven -- it’s worth $1,200 -- but my wife would kill me.

Next Up

Mark's 3 Most Prized Auction Items

Mark Meyer shares his most memorable auction buys--sold and unsold.

Laurence and Sally's 3 Most Prized Auction Items

Laurence and Sally Martin recount their best auction buys.

Billy Leroy's Auction Tips

Billy Leroy has his own style at auction. Use his tips to wheel and deal your way into the best auction and antique steals.

What's It Worth: Blow Up

On the Golden Ticket episode, Laurence and Sally Martin won what appeared to be a rare Pepsi billboard ad. But what's the cost? Did they empty out their pocket for this "rare" piece?

Laurence and Sally Martin's Auction Tips

Laurence and Sally know how to stand out in a crowd at auction. Get their tips on how to make your mark and win big at auction, along with shrewd thrift store shopping advice.

Mark Meyer's Auction Tips

Mark Meyer has a way of hustling his way into big-ticket finds. Get auction and thrifty shopping tips from a pro.

What's It Worth: Guns-A-Blazin

Laurence and Sally Martin get lucky with this rare Barnum & Bailey poster. How much do you think it sold for? Tell us in the comments below!

What's It Worth: Bunny Money

Traci Lombardo, the newest auction specialist, gets lucky with this Star Trek figurine. How much do you think it sold for?

What's It Worth?

How much do you think this item is worth: $50 … $100 … maybe $1,000?

Ready, Set, Bid: Government and Online Auctions

Check out these online auction websites.

What's New from TRVL

On TV

Stream discovery+

Your favorite shows, personalities and exclusive originals. All in one place.

Subscribe Now

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss Travel Channel in your favorite social media feeds.