Antiques Roadshow Revisits Silver Cann Appraisal

An appraisal of Revolutionary-era silver canns in Akron is updated following new historical research.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Collecting

Screen-print poster illustration of an ornate silver tankard, capturing the quiet and studious nature of historical antique appraisal. — Antique collectors and researchers have corrected the provenance of two silver tankards originally misidentified during a 2023 appraisal event in Akron. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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During a 2023 event in Akron, appraiser Nick Dawes examined two silver canns that were initially misidentified as relics of the Sons of Liberty. Subsequent research revealed the items actually belonged to the Loyalist Vassall family and dated back to 1745.

Why it matters

The correction highlights how rapidly shifting historical context can alter the perceived value and provenance of antique collectibles. It serves as a reminder that initial on-camera estimates are often subject to revision once deeper research into an object's engraving is conducted.

The silver canns were initially estimated at $10,000 to $15,000 before being re-valued at $3,000 to $5,000. Despite this revised estimate, the items ultimately sold at auction for slightly more than $10,000.

The players

Nick Dawes

He is a long-standing Antiques Roadshow appraiser who has contributed his expertise to the program for 30 years.

Adam Monahan

He serves as a producer for Antiques Roadshow and is responsible for verifying the provenance of items presented on the show.

The details

Producer Adam Monahan linked the crest on the canns to the Vassall family, who were Loyalists rather than members of the revolutionary movement. The initial misdating to the 1775 era was corrected to a more accurate 1745 manufacturing date following intensive post-appraisal research.

1720: Vassall family branch moved to the Boston area.
1745: Original manufacturing date of the silver canns.
1769: Death of Henry Vassall.
1775: Era of the original, incorrect dating estimate.
2023: Appraisal of the canns in Akron, Ohio.

Culture Shift

This correction reflects a broader movement within the antiques world to replace romanticized myths with rigorous archival research. By aligning objects with the documented history of the Vassall family loyalists, collectors are moving away from revolutionary nostalgia toward factual accuracy.

The revision shows that provenance details can significantly shift an antique's estimated market value. Collectors should verify historical records rather than relying solely on surface-level visual inspections when evaluating their own heirlooms.

The takeaway

Provenance research is the most critical element in determining the true historical significance of any antique. Always cross-reference family crests and maker marks with established genealogical and historical archives before assigning value.