The Most Expensive Things Ever Sold at Auctions

Auctions have always been a thrilling place for collectors, art enthusiasts, and wealthy individuals looking to acquire rare and valuable items. Over the years, many objects have fetched mind-boggling prices, sometimes surpassing the highest expectations of both sellers and buyers. From fine art to historical artifacts, here’s a look at the most expensive things ever sold at auctions, showcasing the incredible value of these extraordinary items.

1. Leonardo da Vinci’s “Salvator Mundi”

Price: $450.3 million (2017)

Undoubtedly one of the most sensational sales in art history, Leonardo da Vinci’s painting Salvator Mundi broke records when it was sold at Christie’s in New York in 2017. The masterpiece, believed to have been painted by da Vinci himself, had been lost for centuries before being rediscovered. The painting of Christ holding a crystal orb was sold for a staggering $450.3 million, making it the most expensive artwork ever auctioned.

Despite some controversy over its authenticity, the sale of Salvator Mundi stunned the world, and the buyer was later revealed to be a Saudi Arabian prince, further fueling intrigue around the painting’s high price tag.

2. Paul Cézanne’s “The Card Players”

Price: $250 million (2011, Private Sale)

While not sold through a public auction, the private sale of Paul Cézanne’s The Card Players in 2011 holds one of the highest known values for any painting. The painting, part of a series of five that Cézanne created between 1890 and 1892, was sold to the Royal Family of Qatar for $250 million. This sale surpassed the price of Salvator Mundi at the time, setting a benchmark for the art world.

The Card Players is regarded as one of the greatest examples of post-impressionist art, depicting peasants engaged in a game of cards. Its immense value reflects not only its historical importance but also its rarity.

3. The Pink Star Diamond

Price: $71.2 million (2017)

At the forefront of the auction world for rare gemstones, the Pink Star Diamond is one of the most expensive diamonds ever sold. Weighing in at 59.60 carats, this stunning fancy vivid pink diamond was sold at Sotheby’s in Hong Kong for $71.2 million in 2017. The gemstone’s flawless quality and captivating color make it one of the most sought-after diamonds on the market, with the price being a reflection of its scarcity and the intense bidding competition.

4. The “Mona Lisa” of Botticelli’s “The Man of Sorrows”

Price: $92.2 million (2013)

Another record-breaking art piece, Sandro Botticelli’s The Man of Sorrows was sold for a jaw-dropping $92.2 million at Sotheby’s in 2013. The painting, one of only a handful of works attributed to Botticelli, garnered immense interest from collectors. It’s a late work by the artist, showcasing his skill and deep emotional expression.

While the price tag was stunning, it was the rarity of the piece and its historical importance that made it so valuable. Bidding wars between anonymous collectors ultimately drove the price to astronomical heights.

5. Marilyn Monroe’s “Happy Birthday Mr. President” Dress

Price: $4.8 million (2016)

Not all high-priced auction items are artworks; some are famous pieces of history. Marilyn Monroe’s iconic “Happy Birthday, Mr. President” dress, worn during her legendary performance for President John F. Kennedy in 1962, fetched an extraordinary $4.8 million at a 2016 auction. The dress, made of sheer nude fabric embellished with rhinestones, was one of the most famous pieces of Hollywood history.

The sale of this dress became a moment in pop culture history, representing the incredible legacy of Monroe and her connection to American political and cultural history.

6. The “Billionaire” Watch by Chopard

Price: $25 million (2017)

In the world of luxury timepieces, the “Billionaire” watch by Chopard holds one of the highest auction prices ever achieved. This bespoke timepiece, which was sold for $25 million in 2017, features 201 carats of emerald-cut diamonds. The watch, designed specifically for a billionaire client, is not only a symbol of extreme wealth but also a true testament to the craftsmanship and extravagance of luxury watchmaking.

It is one of the most expensive watches ever sold, and the immense price reflects both the rarity of its diamonds and the expertise required to craft such a masterpiece.

7. The “Codex Leicester” by Leonardo da Vinci

Price: $30.8 million (1994)

The Codex Leicester is a manuscript written by Leonardo da Vinci, consisting of scientific writings and sketches that reveal his thoughts on topics ranging from the flow of water to the movement of the moon. In 1994, the manuscript was sold at auction for $30.8 million, making it one of the most expensive books ever sold at auction. The buyer, Bill Gates, purchased the codex, and it remains in his private collection.

The codex is one of the most important works of science and art, providing a unique insight into the mind of the genius behind the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper.

8. A 1937 Bugatti Type 57SC Atalante

Price: $10.3 million (2016)

When it comes to classic cars, Bugatti’s Type 57SC Atalante is one of the most coveted. In 2016, a 1937 model of the car was sold for $10.3 million at a Gooding & Co. auction in Pebble Beach, California. The car is considered one of the most desirable models in the world, owing to its rarity, beautiful design, and historical importance.

This price was a testament to the collector car market’s thirst for rare, vintage automobiles, and the auction attracted fierce competition between enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Auctions have become the stage for some of the most remarkable sales in history, with items ranging from world-renowned artworks to iconic memorabilia and rare jewels. The astonishing prices fetched by these items reveal the value that collectors place on rarity, historical significance, and craftsmanship. While these sales may seem exorbitant to some, they offer a glimpse into a world where wealth and passion intersect in the pursuit of unique and extraordinary treasures. As the world of auctions continues to evolve, it’s likely that more record-breaking sales will take place, continuing to amaze and intrigue us for years to come.