DECATUR - A penny was worth up to $2,500 to Decatur resident Jerry Morrison.

But according to Jeff Parsons, president of the Antique Treasure Hunter's Roadshow, it's not your average penny with Lincoln's profile gracing one side.

"This is the holy grail of penny collectors," Parsons said of the 1909 S VDB Lincoln penny, describing it as being in good condition and with luster. "Grading is everything."

Morrison and other local residents brought in their valuables or items they thought could be valuable to the Antique Treasure Hunter's Roadshow to be appraised Thursday.

Such items as toys, jewelry, paper currency and coins were brought to the experts of the roadshow at the Decatur Conference Center and Hotel to find their worth and even sell on the spot. The road show will be available from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. today and Saturday at the hotel.

Morrison, who acquired his valuable penny along with other rare coins and paper currency from his late father, was adamant about not selling his coin to Parsons but appreciative of receiving an estimated value.

"I'm just looking for someone to appraise (my items), so I know what they're worth," he said. "I want the best value I can get for them."

"We encourage people to bring in stuff from attics, basements, anything they think is of worth and bringing it here," Parsons said.

Since its arrival in town Tuesday, Parsons said the roadshow has appraised several bags of silver half-dollars and numerous good condition pocket watches, a teddy bear from 1960 and various items. He suggests individuals bring in pre-1965 toys and U.S. and foreign currency, as well as jewelry, especially if it is gold jewelry.

"Gold's at a record high (right now)," Parsons said. "People are amazed when they bring in their stuff and get it weighed and see how much it's worth."

He added they accept any form of gold, even if it is broken, and sterling silver jewelry, flatware or bars, which, if sold to them, often is melted down to make commemorative coins. One of their 5,400 collectors worldwide also may have an interest to buy an item, he said.

Alicia Spates can be reached at aspates@herald-review.com or 421-6986.