BERLIN – Ocean Pines residents curious about what their antiques are worth will have the chance to find out next week as a nationally known appraiser comes to town.

On Thursday, Aug. 6, antiques and art appraiser Todd Peenstra will host a free event at the Ocean Pines Community Center.

“Todd is a nationally known appraiser with over 20 years of experience doing this,” said Teresa Travatello, marketing director for the Ocean Pines Association. “He will be able to help collectors determine thue of their antique items for many reasons, from curiosity to insurance appraisals to estate planning.”

Lindsy Layfield of the Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks Department said Peenstra approached the homeowners association about offering an event after he attended the Ocean Pines Homes Show earlier this year.

“Todd thought Ocean Pines would be a great community to host his show and see a lot of unique items because of the diversity, area and size of our community,” Layfield said.

Peenstra, who is based in Annapolis, offers appraisals, consultations and advice on furniture, glass, porcelain, paintings, silver, bronze, coins, toys and documents throughout the country.

In Ocean Pines, Peenstra will offer two sessions on Thursday, one from 3-4:15 p.m. and another from 4:30-5:45 p.m. Layfield recommends that those interested in attending register in advance but says it is not required. Participants are asked to arrive 30 minutes early.

The event will be set up in a show format, so those interested in getting items appraised can do so while those interested in simply watching and listening to Peenstra can do so as well.

“Even if you don’t have an item to bring you can still attend and enjoy learning about others’ antiques and collectibles,” Layfield said.

Travatello agreed that it should be fun for everyone in attendance.

“This is one of those interactive events that is good for many age groups,” she said.

Layfield said the appraisal event was scheduled to precede Thursday’s concert in White Horse Park, which is set to begin at 7p.m. The concert is free and will feature Haleytown, an Ocean City band.

For more information on the appraisal or to pre-register contact the Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks Department at 410-641-7052.