Cash in the Attic (BBC America, HGTV)

In the British series CASH IN THE ATTIC, antiques experts work with regular people to weed through their superfluous possessions and identify the valuable ones, which they then take to public auctions to sell. In each episode, the host visits a new family to get some background on the origins of the family's collectibles, to help them set a goal for their auction earnings and to learn what plans they have for the money -- whether it's upgraded home appliances, patio renovations, airline tickets, or, in one case, a swanky cage for a pet bird. Then, accompanied by an antiques pro, they roll up their sleeves and set to the task of uncovering treasures hidden among the excess in their home. When a notable piece is found, the family and the appraiser discuss what they know about its age and history, and the expert offers an estimate of its potential sale price. Once they've amassed enough items to reach their monetary goal, they pack them up and take them to the auction house, where viewers can calculate along with the presenter as to whether the family will meet their goal.

Despite its distinctly dry (and often dusty) subject matter, Cash in the Attic blends families' personal dramas with intriguing tidbits of culture and history, with a few moments of suspense as they await their grand total. The series also works in some professional advice for viewers on buying and selling antiques. Getting tweens to tune in with you could be a hard sell, but those with an interest in history or craftsmanship may very well be sucked in.