The iron-plated strongbox, believed to be German-made, was found in a home in Okehampton. Such chests were historically used to store valuables and are renowned for their security features. This example includes an intricate internal locking system with eight bolts, two padlock clasps, and a hidden keyhole disguised by a false one.

Diana Tigwell, a valuer for Dartmoor Auctions, admitted she initially mistook the item for an ordinary trunk worth about £30 until the owner removed a carpet that was covering it. “Instantly I knew this is not your normal trunk, it’s something far more exciting,” she said. Upon learning of its potential worth, the anonymous owner had to conduct a search for the missing key, BBC reports.

Auctioneer Ann Thorp has valued the chest at around £1,000 for the auction, but suggests it could fetch up to £9,000 in an antiques shop, calling it a “real bargain”. She added, “If two people want it on the day and really start fighting for it, then the sky’s the limit.”

The strongbox will be sold by Dartmoor Auctions on Saturday.