On February 3rd, 2025, the popular ZDF show "Bares für Rares" welcomed its newest expert, Annika Raßbach, showcasing her transition from seller to specialist. Host Horst Lichter expressed excitement over her addition to the team, saying, "Mensch Annika, ist das cool? Ich kann mich noch genau erinnern, wie du da gestanden bist" (Man, Annika, that's cool? I can still vividly recall you standing there). Raßbach had previously appeared as a seller on the show, where her two Gottfried Helnwein paintings fetched 2,300 Euros.
Raßbach's inaugural moment as an expert included evaluating a rare Disneyland-themed Schuco train, with Lichter eager to witness her expertise. Despite the challenge of presenting the toy, which refused to operate, Raßbach's confident analysis earned her praise. She explained the train's production history and its relation to both Disneyland and local Cologne transit history, explaining, "Die Bahn ist nicht so lange hergestellt worden, nämlich nur acht Jahre zwischen 1961 und 1969" (The train was only produced for eight years between 1961 and 1969).
The show's viewers had become familiar with Raßbach thanks to her earlier appearance, but now she brought her passion for retro and vintage items to the forefront. Looking back, Lichter noted, "Du weißt so unglaublich viel, du wirst sie platt machen!" (You know so incredibly much, you'll blow them away!). Raßbach’s expertise was recognized as she confidently handled the Schuco train, detailing its significance and rarity.
Originally from Schwerte and trained as a medical assistant, Raßbach pivoted her career to become passionate about antiques. Her love for restoration and repairing found objects played a key role in her development as knowledgeable within the antique world. Over the past two decades, she has cultivated her skills, and her infectious enthusiasm has solidified her position within the expert team.
The debut episode also highlighted the unique nature of the Schuco train. Raßbach enthusiastically shared its backstory, noting how Axel Lennart Wenner-Gren's vision for the train was to create the "Transportmittel der Zukunft" (transport of the future). Although the train wasn't functioning during the assessment, Raßbach maintained optimism, stating, "Aber da ist noch Leben drin" (But there is still life left in it) upon seeing its lights flicker.
The audience witnessed Raßbach impress everyone with her detailed analysis of the train, noting it had never been seen by Lichter before, which left him genuinely intrigued. The seller's desire for 50 Euros was met with enthusiasm, and Raßbach placed the value at 100 to 150 Euros, offering expert reassurance before the eventual bidding war ensued.
Even as some undervalued the non-operational train, potential buyers were willing to bid quite high, with offers reaching 150 Euros, thanks to its historical importance and Raßbach’s informative insights. Despite the criticisms about the train being non-functional, the spirited bidding reflected the enduring appeal of antique collectibles.
Raßbach’s expertise is poised to inject fresh energy and credibility to the show, alongside long-time experts like Dr. Heide Rezepa-Zabel, Sven Deutschmanek, and others. Viewers can expect her boundless enthusiasm and informed perspectives to significantly enrich future episodes.
Overall, Annika Raßbach’s entry as an expert on "Bares für Rares" marks not just her personal achievement but also highlights the joy of rediscovering vintage treasures. With her charming demeanor and sharp knowledge, the audience has every reason to stay tuned for her upcoming assessments and adventures on the show.