Treasure of the Third Reich: a man learned the truth about a memorabilia bought in an antique shop (3 photos)
Expert Mark Allum was impressed by the unusual find and initially praised its beauty, but pointed out details that pointed to it being a fake. 
A visitor to the popular British show Antiques Roadshow who brought in a camera he believed was a rare Nazi artefact for evaluation was faced with an unpleasant truth. The show's expert Mark Allum confirmed that the camera, bought for £480, was a fake.
The show visited Lincoln Cathedral (England), where a guest proudly presented a Leica camera decorated with the Olympic rings, an eagle, a swastika and the date 1936. The man explained that he had purchased the artifact in an antique shop. He was sure that the camera was related to the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin.
Expert Mark Allum, known for his love of cameras, was impressed by the appearance of the device and initially noted its beauty. He also recalled how he once had the opportunity to evaluate a real rarity - a Leica Luxus camera. However, this is where the positive part of the evaluation ended. Allum explained that fake rare Leica cameras are often found on the antique market, especially in Eastern European countries. He pointed out several problems with the serial numbers of the device and the quality of the engraving, which proved that it was a fake.
"Unfortunately, things that look too good to be true often are," the expert said. 
The show's guest was not prepared for the truth.
"You've disappointed me," he admitted with a hint of irony.
Allum tried to soften the blow by pointing out that £480 was not the biggest loss on an antique deal. A real rare Leica could be worth thousands of pounds, making the risk of such purchases obvious.
"Just accept it for what it is and enjoy it on your shelf," the expert added.
The case highlights the risks of collecting, especially when it comes to expensive and rare items. Experts advise buyers to be cautious and consult professionals before buying expensive antiques. 
