I can offer a general response based on common scenarios that people may encounter while remodeling homes.
Finding valuables hidden in a home during a remodeling project can be an unexpected and exciting experience. Some valuable items that people have discovered include old coins, antique jewelry, valuable paintings, or historical artifacts. The emotional response of the discoverer can range from surprise and joy to curiosity and intrigue.
What someone does with the valuables they find during a home renovation depends on various factors, including local laws, ethical considerations, and personal values. Here are some possible courses of action:
Contact the homeowner: If the remodeling work is being conducted for someone else, such as a client or friend, the discoverer may inform the homeowner about the findings and discuss how to handle them together.
Notify the authorities: In some cases, especially if the items have significant historical or cultural value, it may be appropriate to notify local authorities, such as a museum or historical society.
Keep the items: If the items are not of extraordinary value or significance, the homeowner or the person conducting the remodeling may choose to keep them as a serendipitous find.
Sell or auction the items: If the discoverer doesn't have a personal attachment to the valuables but recognizes their worth, they might decide to sell or auction the items to collectors or interested buyers.
Donate or gift the items: Another option is to donate the valuable items to a charity or organization or gift them to someone who would appreciate them.
It's crucial to remember that if valuable artifacts, antiques, or historical items are discovered during a renovation, they might have historical or cultural significance. In such cases, it's essential to follow local laws and regulations related to artifact discoveries and consider preserving and documenting the items appropriately.
In any situation involving valuable discoveries during a renovation, it is advisable to seek advice from professionals, such as appraisers or historians, to determine the best course of action. Additionally, documenting the findings through photographs or videos before making any decisions is a wise step.