The world of collectors is one of mystery, obsession, and sometimes, sheer madness. What drives people to pay astronomical sums for these items? Maybe it’s the rarity, the history, or the sheer beauty of the object. Whatever the reason, these collector’s items have been ranked quite high in the collector’s world.
Leonardo da Vinci’s “Salvator Mundi”
Sold for $450.3 million in 2017, “Salvator Mundi” was made by Leonardo da Vinci. Once lost to history and believed to have been painted by a lesser artist, this masterpiece was only recently authenticated as a true Leonardo.
The British Guiana 1c Magenta Stamp
This tiny scrap of paper is the most expensive stamp in the world, fetching $9.5 million at auction in 2014. Issued in 1856, the British Guiana 1c Magenta is the only one of its kind known to exist.
The Codex Leicester by Leonardo da Vinci
Once again, da Vinci makes the list, this time with his “Codex Leicester,” a collection of scientific writings. Bill Gates purchased it for $30.8 million in 1994, and it offers a window into the mind of one of history’s greatest thinkers.
The Ferrari 250 GTO
Not just any car, the Ferrari 250 GTO is considered the Holy Grail of automobiles. In 2018, one sleek, classic sports car sold for $78 million. Only 36 were ever made, making it a rare vehicle with a piece of automobile history.
The Pink Star Diamond
This flawless pink diamond is a rare natural wonder. Weighing 59.6 carats, the Pink Star set a world record when it was sold for $71.2 million in 2017. What sets the Pink Star apart is its vibrant pink hue, which is incredibly rare in diamonds.
The Honus Wagner T206 Baseball Card
Every sports memorabilia collector dreams of a mint-condition Honus Wagner T206 baseball card. Famous as the “Mona Lisa of baseball cards,” one of these cards sold for $6.6 million in 2021.
The 1933 Double Eagle Coin
One of the rarest coins in the world is the 1933 Double Eagle. Originally intended to be melted down after the Gold Reserve Act, a few coins managed to survive, with one selling for $18.9 million in 2021.
The Olyphant (Ancient Roman Hunting Horn)
An exquisitely carved ivory hunting horn from the 11th century, the Olyphant is a relic of the past that fetched $16.1 million at auction. Its complex designs and historical significance make it a collector’s dream.
The Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Watch
The Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime is a marvel of horology. Selling for $31 million in 2019, it holds the record for the most expensive wristwatch ever auctioned. With 20 complications and two dials, this timepiece is as complex as beautiful.
The Archduke Joseph Diamond
This 76-carat D-color flawless diamond fetched $21.5 million in 2012. The auction house and diamond experts praised the diamond for its impeccable quality. Notably, it was first owned by Archduke Joseph August of Austria.
The Rothschild Fabergé Egg
One of Fabergé’s most exquisite creations, the Rothschild Fabergé Egg, sold for $18.5 million in 2007. Crafted as a wedding gift, this jewel-encrusted egg contains a hidden clock and a mechanical bird that pops up and sings every hour.
The 18th Century Stradivarius Violin
Stradivarius violins are known for their rich, warm sound, which many musicians describe as having a unique brilliance and depth. One such violin, the “Lady Blunt” Stradivarius, was sold for $15.9 million in 2011.
The Blue Moon of Josephine Diamond
The Blue Moon of Josephine, a 12.03-carat vivid blue diamond, was purchased by a Hong Kong billionaire for his daughter for $48.4 million. Its deep blue color and flawless clarity make it one of the most valuable gemstones in the world, and its story adds a personal touch to its allure.
The “Black Lotus” Magic: The Gathering Card
As one of the most iconic cards in the Magic: The Gathering universe, it was originally printed in 1993. In May 2024, it was sold for $3 million. This sale eclipsed previous records, including a signed Black Lotus purchased by rapper Post Malone for $800,000.
The L’Incomparable Diamond Necklace
The L’Incomparable Diamond Necklace, valued at $55 million, holds the record for the most valuable necklace in the world. Its centerpiece is a 407-carat yellow diamond, surrounded by 230 carats of smaller white diamonds.
