It is a big statement coming from auctioneer of 30 plus years, John Clark, who assessed the collection on Thursday.

While the official Antique Auction will be held at Hermitage Hill on Sunday, December 3, the sheer size of Mr Spicer’s estate made it impractical to transport and has instead earned itself an auction of its own the day prior and continued on Sunday.

“We were going to send it to the Hermitage Hill auction but will have a separate auction here on the Saturday, the day prior, due to the huge amount of items,” Mr Clark said.

He said it is rare to see a collection like that of Mr Spicer’s, a well-respected Wellington man and keen collector of over 60 years who passed away earlier this year aged 94.

“This is as good a collection as you will see,” Mr Clark said.

“The Spicers collected like a religion, they were dedicated collectors.

“It’s the best of the colonial era from the start.” 

He anticipates collectors will travel from far and wide to attend the auction which features a lifetime collection of genuine militarily items from both wars, colonial tools, shearing gear and items from everyday life over 100 years ago.

Mr Spicer’s daughter, Jenny, said her dad loved collecting. 

“He always collected things,” she said.

“Military items, horse gear, shearing equipment and general and historic items.”

Mr Spicer’s estate will go on auction on Saturday, December 2 from 9am at the 2 Gisborne Street, Wellington address. 

The Antique Auction at Hermitage Hill will follow on Sunday, December 3 commencing at 11am with viewing from 9am.

A barbecue and drinks will be available on the Sunday.

Anyone interested in selling wares should contact Brad Clarke on 0428 605 289.

More information on the auctions will be made available at www.tuckerboxauctions.com.au closer to the date.