Company seeks 'treasure' in Moses Lake
Alex Cuevas, of Quincy, waits to learn more about his sword as buyer Richard Surmeyer, of THR & Associates, researched the item on his computer during an event at the Moses Lake Ramada Inn Saturday.
MOSES LAKE - Alex Cuevas, of Quincy, was quietly awaiting more information about a sword he says is from the World War II era.
As he waited, buyer Richard Surmeyer, of the Springfield, Ill. Headquartered THR & Associates, conducted research on his computer.
Surmeyer's employer is a buyer of precious metals, coins and antiques and part of the "Treasure Hunters Roadshow" TV program. The show isn't filming at this time, according to the company's web site.
Surmeyer set up shop at the Moses Lake Ramada Inn for three days this month, giving people like Cuevas a chance to see how much their possessions are worth.
Cuevas said the sword isn't a true katana, but understands it was taken at the Battle of Tarawa.
"I'm just trying to learn more about it," Cuevas said.
After completing his research Surmeyer confirmed the sword is a military sword from World War II Japan worth between $5 to $150, but not a katana.
After learning the news, Cuevas kept his sword.
Surmeyer explained the market was flooded with swords and bayonets from returning World War II soldiers.
"You can figure everyone who came back from World War II sold these," Surmeyer said.
He's been with his employer for eight months and says he "loves it" because he travels everywhere, sees everything and gets to meet new people.
Surmeyer worked with the public for 28 years in the retail and hospitality industries.
"I love dealing with people," he said.
Many times, people sell their personal items because they need money, want to get rid of old memories or are dividing their estate for their children.
While in Moses Lake, his supervisor, Noah Williams, said they received many Morgan and peace silver dollars and jewelry.
One customer brought in a Norman Rockwell painting and a book, which was sent to company researchers to obtain more information.
Williams said he's seen many class rings come in. Nine times out of 10, class rings are made of 10-karat gold and are worth money because of the gold.
Another customer brought in a silver tea set.
Surmeyer and Williams' last day in Moses Lake was Saturday.
They are now headed to Puyallup for another event.