MARION — Sentimental value or family treasure? Let the experts weigh in. Your grandmother’s favorite vase or necklace may be worth a small fortune. Would you like to know?

Hosted by the First Congregational Church of Marion, “Meet the Experts: 2nd Annual High Tea & Treasures Road Show” will be held Saturday, May 18 from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the community center on 144 Front St.

In addition to afternoon tea, guests are encouraged to bring an antique, piece of jewelry, art or a curiosity piece to be reviewed by experts in their field. Marion’s local antique expert, Frank McNamee of Marion Antiques, along with colleagues Nick Taradash and Abigail Field will provide information and commentaries.

Their love of history has led McNamee, Taradash and Field to their current careers with each having an affinity for a specific area, whether it be jewelry, manuscripts, decorative art and design, or textiles, clothing and East Asian antiques. McNamee, Taradash and Field have conducted appraisal discovery days for numerous non-profits groups.

McNamee’s expertise is recognized far outside of Marion. He has over 45 years in the antique business and 30 years appraisal experience. McNamee has handled Southeastern Massachusetts' most significant estates. He is the owner of Marion Antique Shop and Marion Antique Auctions. In 2013, McNamee sold the lost Edgar Allan Poe manuscript for $300,000, and in 2020, he sold an old master drawing by Jan Lievens for $500,000.

McNamee has conducted appraisals for numerous law firms and museums including the Smithsonian Institution, the New Bedford Whaling Museum and Providence College. He was previously president of the Sippican Historical Society and is now the curator of its museum. He is a member of the Cape Cod Antique Dealers Association and a senior member of the Providence Appraisal Collaborative. Frank graduated from Massachusetts Auctioneer’s School and maintains a current Massachusetts auctioneers license.

A limited number of tickets are available. Admission is $25 in advance or $30 at the door and includes one item for review. Additional items may be reviewed at $10 per item as time permits. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the Marion General Store, First Congregational Church of Marion community center office or Penny Pinchers Exchange.

For more information and to purchase tickets online, visit marionfirstchurch.org.