In a twist that could only happen on “Antiques Roadshow,” a man discovered his casual chair throw-over was actually a ticket to the high life. Imagine sitting down, draped in what you think is just a cozy blanket, only to find out it’s worth a fortune. That’s exactly what happened to Ted Kuntz, who brought an old blanket to PBS’ “Antiques Roadshow” and left with his jaw on the floor.
Ted’s blanket wasn’t just any old piece of fabric; it was a Navajo Ute blanket from the 1850s with a backstory that could rival any Netflix drama. He casually mentioned that this potentially lucrative décor had been lounging over his chair, oblivious to its own worth.
When show expert Donald Ellis laid eyes on the blanket, he had a reaction that was part historical reverence, part “I need a paper bag to breathe into.” He excitedly unveiled to Ted that on a bad day, the blanket could fetch $350,000, and on a good day, it might soar to half a million dollars. Ted, understandably, needed a moment (or several) to process this bombshell.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – or rather, the historical figure on the blanket. The blanket’s value wasn’t just in its age or craftsmanship but in its deep-rooted connection to a tumultuous period in American history. It was allegedly linked to Kit Carson, a name that conjures both admiration and horror, depending on which history book you’re reading. Carson, known for his frontiersman exploits, also had a dark side, especially when it came to his involvement in the tragic events that affected the Navajo community.
This historical tapestry added layers to the blanket’s value, making it not just a financial treasure but a poignant piece of the past. Ultimately, the blanket found a new home where it could be appreciated for all its layers, both material and historical, as it was sold for around $450,000 and generously donated to the Detroit Institute of Arts.
So, next time you’re rummaging through your attic or considering throwing an old blanket over a chair, remember Ted’s tale. You might just be sitting on (or under) a piece of history worth more than your wildest dreams. And who knows? Maybe that old set of Pokémon cards you’ve got stashed away could be the next big find on “Antiques Roadshow.”
