The Five Most Expensive Swords Ever Sold at Auction
If you are a person that can appreciate fine collectibles, then you will definitely find this article interesting. Every year, there are millions of dollars spent at auctions to buy everything from cars to weapons. In many cases, millions are spent on one item.
The sword is a weapon that does not have much use in contemporary times, except for in the world of martial arts and as a symbolic piece for certain military branches around the world, including the U.S. Marines. Where you do find that the swords from all historical eras have not lost their significance is in the area of art and antique collectors.
You would probably be surprised at some of the prices that auction houses are getting for antique swords at auction. Here are the five most experience swords sold at auction. The items are listed from the least expensive to the most expensive.
5. The Gem of The Orient Knife – $2.1 million
If we were calculated which is most expensive based on size and weight, this small knife would win hands down. While its $2.1 million selling price cannot compare to the $7.7 price for the sword that tops this list, it is definitely worth more per ounce than any other piece on the list.
What is interesting about this knife is the fact that is not that old. The knife was made in 1966 by one of the greatest knifemakers in history, Buster Warenski.
4. Shah Jahan’s Personal Dagger – $3.3 Million
It is not always about size. The craftsmanship and balance of this piece are exceptional. This dagger belonged to Shah Jahan was one of the greatest emperors in the history of the Mughal empire, which reached its apex between 1627 and 1657.
This elegant design features and silver blade decorated in gold. Since it was originally discovered, it has been sold a total of five times, with the last sale achieving a height of $3.3 million. The sword has a rich history and you have to be rich in order to own it. Nothing comes cheap when it comes to ancient artifacts.
3. The 15th Century Nasrid Period Ear Dagger – $6 Million
When it comes to the Nasrid period of history, the ear dagger may be the most exclusive contribution made. This dagger originated in North Africa. While the simplicity of this sword is obvious, it’s the age and uniqueness of the sword that adds to its solidified value.
The handle has to flattened discs that oppose one another that resemble ears. This is where it gets the name ear dagger from. According to historical accounts, Spanish people used this weapon during the 15th and 16th centuries. This particular was sold at auction in 2010 for $6 million.
2. Napoleon Bonaparte’s Sword – $6.5 Million
The reference to Napoleon Bonaparte alone adds value to this gorgeous work of art. What is amazing is the number of attention artisans put into their work so long ago.
The sword, which is said to have belonged to the French emperor is the second most expensive sword on the planet, having sold at auction for $6.5 million. The sword is more than 200 years old and the design is quite extravagant. Both the sword and its sheath are intricately designed and hand-crafted with amazing detail.
The handle of the sword is gold encrusted. Another interesting note suggests that Napoleon actually used this sword during battle. How accurate this statement is cannot be verified at the time of publishing this article.
1. The 18th Century Boateng Saber – $7.7 Million
Currently, this 18th-century sword is recognized as the most expensive sword in the world. It originally sold for $5.5 million, and then two years later it sold for a whopping $7.7 million in 2008. The sword was made during the Qianlong rule between 1736 to 1795.
The s-shaped black design is equipped with a fitted jade handle, and the blade is decorated with inlaid gold, copper, and silver. As you can imagine, a great deal of work goes into the upkeep of such a sword to ensure its longevity.
Not only does the rarity of the sword contribute to its value, but the quality and craftsmanship displayed and the precious metals also play a vital role in bolstering the value of this first and most expensive piece.
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