Antiques Roadshow expert refuses to value controversial item: 'I won't do it'

Antiques Roadshow expert Ronnie Archer-Morgan caused a stir when he refused to value a controversial ivory bangle on a recent episode of the long-running BBC series.

The 73-year-old antiques expert, who has been with the show since 2011, made it clear he would not support placing a price on an item linked to the ivory trade, sparking debate among viewers.

Speaking later about his decision, Archer-Morgan explained his stance on valuing items associated with human suffering and other contentious histories.

"I want to make it absolutely clear that myself and we in the Antiques Roadshow wholly and unequivocally disapprove of the trade in ivory," Archer-Morgan declared during the episode. Although he explored the item’s background, he refused to provide a valuation, adding: "I don't want to value it. I don't want to put a price on something that signifies such an awful business."

This isn’t the first time Antiques Roadshow experts have opted not to value particular items, but Archer-Morgan’s decision reignited the conversation among fans.

In a follow-up interview with GB News, he explained that there are other instances when experts avoid valuing items linked to sensitive or painful histories.

"It happens a lot, with medals—we have to be very careful about it," Archer-Morgan said. "We shouldn't put a monetary value on people's loss of liberty. If something came out of a concentration camp or a grant to—I don't know, commit genocide—was found, a letter giving someone the authority to cause people's death, you mustn't put a price on that."

He further noted: "Even people's bravery in a way—when people have made sacrifices—this was a warrant for someone to deal in human life."

Outside of his work with Antiques Roadshow, Archer-Morgan is an advocate for Action for Children, a charity supporting children in care, a cause that resonates deeply with him as he himself grew up in care after the war.

Reflecting on his past, he shared: "I was in care shortly after the war—all the carers really cared—it was a calling for them."

Grateful for his own positive experience, Archer-Morgan said: "Growing up in care saved my life. I wouldn't be where I am today without the warmth and love from the home that took me in and nurtured me.

"I want that for every child in care—this is why I’m here today, campaigning for change because every child, regardless of the lottery of life, deserves to have a safe and happy childhood."

Paul Carberry, CEO of Action for Children, reinforced this message, stating: "Every child deserves a safe, loving and supportive home. That security gives them the foundations they need to thrive, both in childhood and later life.