THE gate man at Beverley Races might do a double take, but the solid-silver tickets are valid.
Two punters could well arrive at the course's Super Saturday brandishing 18th-century silver disks.
The historical items, auctioned yesterday, were initially issued as debenture tickets for the building of a new stand at the course in 1767.
Following their discovery, they were being auctioned as novelty items, worth £100 to £200.
Then Racecourse Chairman Charles Maxtead said he would honour their value as tickets for the next three seasons. Yesterday, they sold for £6,100.
Auctioneer Graham Paddison said: "That's a tremendous amount for what they are.
"They're just small, insignificant, pieces of silver."
Mr Paddison, who ran the auction for Dee, Atkinson and Harrison in Driffield's Exchange Street yesterday, was accepting bids both from the floor and online.
He said: "They went separately, one was bought by someone in the room for £2,800 and the other went to someone online for £3,300."
Essentially, it came down to two bidders going for the two silver tickets.
They came away with one each. Whether they are race fans or antique collectors, both buyers preferred to remain anonymous.
The silver tickets had been put into auction by 92-year-old retired farmer Charlie Voase. He said any money they made would go to a good cause; the Riding for the Disabled Association.
Mr Paddison said: "When we contacted Charles Maxtead, he thought it was a wonderful story and agreed to the three years' grace, then they sent us letters confirming that.
"I'm sure the chap on the racecourse gate will say 'Do you think I was born yesterday?'
"But it's all agreed and, of course, the Riding for the Disabled charity will benefit."
With temperatures set to peak at 25C this weekend, Beverley Racecourse has one of its busiest days in store today.
Management have warned people to get there early if they want to get in.
The Super Saturday event is a big favourite with race fans from the North East.
Pubs and restaurants in Beverley town centre, which benefit hugely from successful race days, are looking forward to a busy weekend.
At the course, plans are already in place to open the doors for the enclosure from 11.30am to cope with the demand.
The first race is at 1.55pm with the final one at 5.25pm.
Visit beverley-racecourse. co.uk for more information.
