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- From toddlers selling paintings to auctioneers wielding gavels for 24-hour marathons, the world of auctions is packed with jaw-dropping records and eccentric feats. Ian Kasper once sold
1,023 lots sold in 24 hours, while a rare 1933 Double Eagle gold coin fetched a staggering $7.59 million online. In Ghana, pint-sized prodigy Ace-Liam Nana Sam Ankrah made history by selling
nine paintings before most kids learn to tie their shoes. Even entire museums have gone under the hammer, like the Guinness World Records Museum in Niagara Falls, which auctioned off its legendary
memorabilia in a final farewell. These arent just salestheyre spectacles of ambition, rarity, and human creativity.
- The longest auction in the world by a single auctioneer was conducted by James Lewis in Rowsley, Derbyshire, UK, on June 22, 2019. He held the gavel for a staggering 24 hours and 6 minutes,
earning himself a Guinness World Record. The marathon event was organized in collaboration with Bamfords Auctioneers and Saint Anselm's School, and it raised funds for wildlife charities
including the Born Free Foundation.
- Some of the most record-breaking auction items include the Codex Sassoon, the earliest and most complete Hebrew Bible, which sold for $38.1 million in 2023, and the official edition of
the U.S. Constitution, which fetched $43.2 million in 2022, making it the most valuable document ever sold at auction. Leonardo da Vincis Codex Leicester was purchased by Bill Gates for
$30.8 million in 1994, while the 1830 manuscript of the Book of Mormon sold for $35 million in 2017. In the world of cars, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coup shattered records at
$143 million in 2022, followed by the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO at $48.4 million, the 1957 Ferrari 335 S Spider Scaglietti at $35.7 million, the 1956 Aston Martin DBR1 at $22.5 million, and
the 1935 Duesenberg SSJ at $22 million. These staggering prices reflect the rarity, historical significance, and intense demand among collectors.
- Heritage Auctions holds a commanding position in the global auction landscape. Founded in 1976 in Dallas, Texas by Steve Ivy and later joined by Jim Halperin, it began as a rare coin auctioneer
and rapidly expanded into over 40 categories, including fine art, comics, sports memorabilia, luxury accessories, and historical artifacts. Today, Heritage is recognized as the largest collectibles
auctioneer in the world, the largest fine art and collectibles auction house founded in the U.S., and the third-largest auction house globally, trailing only Sothebys and Christies. Its digital
prowess is equally impressive, with over 1.96 million registered bidder-members from all 195 countries, making it a leader in online auctions. From selling a $3.2 million Action Comics #1 to rare
George Washington letters, Heritage blends high-tech innovation with deep expertise to serve a diverse and passionate collector base.
- At auctions, the most commonly sold and high-value items include fine artespecially works by renowned artists like Picasso and Warholfollowed by rare jewelry and luxury watches,
such as the Oppenheimer Blue diamond or Patek Philippe timepieces. Antiques, historical memorabilia, and collectibles like Marilyn Monroes dress or Beatles albums also attract
significant bids. Classic cars, including vintage Ferraris and Mercedes-Benz models, often sell for tens of millions, while real estate auctions are popular for properties in foreclosure
or estate sales. Rare coins and stamps, such as the 1933 Double Eagle or the British Guiana One Cent Magenta, are prized by collectors, and luxury goods like designer handbags, wine
collections, and even yachts have made headlines for their staggering auction prices.
- As of 2024, Sothebys is the largest auction company in the world by total sales value, followed closely by Christies. Sothebys, founded in 1744, operates in over 40 countries and
conducts auctions in more than 70 categories including fine art, jewelry, automobiles, and wine. Christies, established in 1766, is also a global powerhouse with 85 offices in 43 countries
and a strong reputation for record-breaking art sales. In the U.S., Heritage Auctions ranks as the largest collectibles auctioneer and the third-largest auction house globally, specializing
in coins, comics, sports memorabilia, and pop culture items
- Sothebys, established in 1744 as a rare bookseller, evolved into a leader in modern and contemporary art, American furniture, and photography. It was publicly traded until 2019,
when it was acquired by Patrick Drahi, giving it more flexibility and privacy. Sothebys has recently become more competitive by lowering buyer premiums.
- Christies, founded in 1766, has deep roots in European fine art and is known for handling Old Masters, books, and manuscripts. It is privately owned by French billionaire Franois Pinault,
allowing it more discretion in financial reporting and deal-making. Christies often offers perks like travel incentives to high-value clients.
- Winning an auction without the ability to pay can lead to serious consequences. An auction win typically forms a legally binding contract, and failure to fulfill payment obligations
constitutes a breach. This may result in forfeiture of any deposit, financial penalties, and liability for additional costs such as relisting fees or losses incurred if the item sells for
less in a subsequent auction. Auction houses may initiate legal proceedings, potentially leading to court judgments or wage garnishment in severe cases. A bidders reputation can be damaged,
possibly resulting in exclusion from future auctions. In certain contextssuch as livestock or real estate salesnon-payment may even be classified as theft, carrying the risk of criminal
charges. When payment issues arise, prompt communication with the auction house is essential to explore possible solutions like extended deadlines or alternative arrangements.
- On June 22, 2019, James Lewis, founder of Bamfords Auctioneers and Valuers, set a Guinness World Record for the longest auction conducted by a single auctioneer, lasting an
astonishing 24 hours and 6 minutes in Rowsley, Derbyshire, UK. The event was organized in collaboration with the children of Saint Anselms School and featured over 2,500 lots,
including jewelry, charity items, and country house goods. Held to raise funds for wildlife charities such as the Born Free Foundation, the marathon auction showcased Lewiss
endurance and dedication, ultimately raising 225,000 after expenses.
- Auctioneers use a rapid, rhythmic speech style called the auction chant, which blends numbers with filler phrases to create urgency and maintain momentum. A typical chant might sound
like, One dollar bid, now two, now two, will ya give me two? Two dollar bid, now three, now three, will ya give me three?where the auctioneer announces the current bid, asks for the
next increment, and uses filler words like now, would ya give, and can I get to keep the cadence flowing. This fast-paced delivery isnt just theatrical; its designed to energize
the crowd, encourage bidding, and keep the auction moving efficiently.
- Beyond historical memorabilia, auctions have seen ancient artifacts like Assyrian gypsum reliefs, Egyptian statues, and Roman marble sculptures selling for millions.
In the art world, Leonardo da Vinci's "Salvator Mundi" holds the record for the most expensive painting ever sold at auction, fetching $450.3 million. Some of the rarest and notable
historical artifacts sold at auction recently include Abraham Lincoln's blood-stained gloves, which fetched $1.51 million. Other Lincoln-related items, such as a monogrammed cuff
button from the night of his assassination ($445,000) and the earliest known sample of his handwriting ($521,200), also commanded high prices; a handkerchief Lincoln
had with him the night he was shot went for $826,000.
- The most valuable artifacts ever sold at auction:
- Leonardo da Vincis "Codex Leicester" A scientific notebook by da Vinci, sold for $30.8 million to Bill Gates.
- The Badminton Cabinet A luxurious 18th-century piece of furniture, auctioned for $36.7 million.
- Artemisia Gentileschis "Lucretia" A stunning Baroque painting, sold for $41.9 million
.
- Ancient Egyptian artifacts Items like the Limestone Bust of Nekht-ankh have fetched over 1.5 million.
- Abraham Lincolns blood-stained gloves Sold for $1.51 million in a recent auction.
- Auctions have seen some truly remarkable artifacts go under the hammer, fetching jaw-dropping prices. Below are a few notable ones:
- Leonardo da Vincis "Salvator Mundi" Sold for $450.3 million, this masterpiece is the most expensive painting ever auctioned.
- Pablo Picassos "Les Femmes dAlger" This vibrant artwork fetched $179.4 million in 2015.
- Francis Bacons "Three Studies of Lucian Freud" A striking triptych that sold for $142.4 million.
- Alberto Giacomettis "LHomme au doigt" One of the most valuable sculptures ever auctioned, selling for $141.3 million.
- Amedeo Modiglianis "Nu couch" This iconic painting was auctioned for $170.4 million.
- Jimi Hendrixs electric guitar A piece of rock history that commanded a significant price.
- Vintage automobiles Classic cars like the 1936 Delahaye 135 Competition Court Roadster have been auctioned for millions.
- Alexander Historical Auctions is a well-known auction house specializing in historical autographs, documents, photographs, militaria, and important relics.
They have been in operation since 1991 and are based in Chesapeake City, Maryland, and specialize in rare historical memorabilia, including George Washington's memorabilia,
Napoleon Bonapartes personal cassoulette, and John F. Kennedy's original broadside, 8.5 x 11 in. b/w, Bob Dylan's handwritten lyrics and a reversible gold watch owned by Adolf Hitler.
- Leonardo da Vincis Salvator Mundi, Pablo Picassos Les Femmes dAlger, Francis Bacons Three Studies of Lucian Freud, Alberto Giacomettis LHomme au doigt, 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Berlinetta,
the British Guiana One Cent Magenta Stamp, and Patek Philippe Henry Graves Supercomplication Watch the most expensive and rare items ever sold at auction houses in America. These items highlight the incredible
value collectors place on rare and unique pieces. Each has a fascinating story and significant cultural impact.
- Leonardo da Vincis Salvator Mundi: This masterpiece fetched $450.3 million in 2017 at Christies, making it the most expensive painting ever sold at auction.
- This masterpiece, depicting Christ holding a crystal orb, was rediscovered in 2005 after being lost for centuries, and its sale set a new benchmark in the art world.
It remains the highest price ever paid for a single item at public auction.
- Pablo Picassos Les Femmes dAlger: Sold for $179.4 million in 2015 at Christies, this vibrant painting is celebrated for its dynamic composition.
- Francis Bacons Three Studies of Lucian Freud: This triptych sold for $142.4 million in 2013 at Christies, known for its psychological depth and bold colors.
- Alberto Giacomettis LHomme au doigt: This bronze sculpture fetched $141.3 million in 2015 at Christies, celebrated for its dynamic energy.
- 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Berlinetta: This classic car sold for $48 million, making it one of the most expensive cars ever auctioned.
- The British Guiana One Cent Magenta Stamp: This rare stamp sold for $9.5 million, making it the most expensive stamp ever sold.
- Patek Philippe Henry Graves Supercomplication Watch: This intricate watch sold for $24 million, known for its complexity and craftsmanship.
- The British Guiana One Cent Magenta Stamp, which is a fascinating piece of philatelic history,is regarded by many philatelists as the world's most famous rare stamp;
the stamp's unique history and rarity make it a true gem in the world of philately.
- Origin: Issued in 1856 in British Guiana (now Guyana) as an emergency measure due to a delayed shipment of stamps from Great Britain.
- Design: The stamp is printed in black on magenta paper and features a sailing ship with the colony's Latin motto "Damus Petimus Que Vicissim" (We give and expect in return).
- Rarity: Only one specimen is known to exist, making it the rarest and most famous stamp in the world.
- Value: It has broken the world record for a single stamp auction price multiple times, with its most recent sale in June 2021 for $8.3 million.
- Ownership: The stamp has changed hands several times, with notable owners including Philipp von Ferrary, Arthur Hind, and Stuart Weitzman.
- A piece of conceptual art made out a banana affixed to a white wall with silver duct tape, debuted in 2019 at Art Basel Miami Beach as part of artist Maurizio Cattelan's piece of art Comedian, was sold for
$6.2 million at the Christie's auction in New York on November 21, 2024. Bidding started at $800,000 and
within minutes shot up to $2 million, $3 million, $4 million, then higher, and the final hammer price was $5.2 million, which didn't include about $1 million in auction house fees, paid by Justin Sun,
founder of cryptocurrency platform TRON; this piece was sold several times before for between $120,000 and $150,000. As part of the
sale agreement, the banana is not included, since it will
rot and need to be often changed for display; Sun has received a roll of duct tape, instructions on how to install the banana and a certificate of authenticity guaranteeing
it as an original work of Cattelans.
- A version of The Empire of Light, series, painted by the Belgian surrealist Ren Magritte in 1954 was sold for
$121.2 million at the Christie's auction in New York on November 19, 2024, the painting is
one of 27 variations where Magritte explores the coexistence of daylight sky above and nighttime street scene against a bright. This sale set a new auction record for Magritte, surpassing the previous record of $78.95 million.
- A delicate porcelain bowl, measuring under 4.5 inches in diameter, sold for more than $25.3 million during a art auction
in April 2023 in Hong Kong; the bowl, which was produced during the time of the Yongzheng Emperor, who ruled China from 1722 to 1735, was acquired by a collector, Alice Cheng, at a record $19.3 million in 2006.
- A rare Chinese vase made for the court of the Qianlong Emperor -- the sixth emperor of the Qing dynasty
in the 18th century has sold for nearly $1.8 million at an auction in May 2022. The gilded blue artifact was
initially valued at $186,000 by the English auction house that handled the sale. The seller was unaware of its value, and so kept it in the kitchen, where it was spotted by an expert.
- On October 3, 2017, a nearly 900-year-old Ru Guanyao brush washer bowl from Chinas Northern Song dynasty (9601127) sold at Sothebys Hong Kong for $37.7 million, setting a new world auction record for Chinese ceramics. This luminous blue-glazed bowl, measuring just 13
centimeters in diameter, was originally designed for washing brushes and is one of only four known pieces of its kind in private hands. The bidding war lasted around 20 suspenseful minutes, with the winning offer coming from a phone bidder who
remained anonymous. The sale eclipsed the previous record of $36.05 million, held by a Ming dynasty chicken cup purchased in 2014. The Ru wares rarity, imperial provenance, and exquisite craftsmanship made it a crown jewel for collectors and a
benchmark moment in the art market.
- A vintage Bugatti, originally purchased for just $88 in 1950, soared to a staggering $625,575 at auction in July 2011. This dramatic leap in value reflects not
only the rarity and craftsmanship of Bugatti automobiles but also the growing reverence for automotive history. Bugatti, founded by Ettore Bugatti, is synonymous with elegance, engineering brilliance, and exclusivity. Many of its pre-war modelslike
the Type 35, Type 57, or Type 41 Royaleare considered rolling works of art. When a well-preserved or historically significant Bugatti hits the auction block, collectors worldwide take notice. This particular sale is a testament to how a modest
investment, paired with time and provenance, can transform into a six-figure treasure.
- 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster sold for $11.7 million at Gooding & Co's auction in Pebble Beach.
- The dull green 1968 Ford Mustang GT (driven by Steve McQueen in the film Bullitt)
sold on 1/10/2020 for $3.74 million. This car was bough in 1974 for $3,500
in response to a classified ad in Road & Track magazine. As of today, generally, a 1968 Ford Mustang GT with a 390 cubic-inch V8 engine would be worth about $70,000 in good condition. The previous record was
held by a 1967 Shelby GT500 that sold for $2.2 million at Mecums Kissimmee auction in 2019.
- The Ferrari 250 is a series of sports cars and grand tourers built by Ferrari from 1953 to 1964.
250 series cars are characterized by their use of a 3.0 litres (2,953 cc) Colombo V12 engine designed by Giaoccino Colombo.
1963 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Coupe sold for $7.595 million in January 2019 at Gooding & Company.
The runner-up was a 1958 Ferrari 250 GT TdF sold for $5,890,000.
- At a joint Sotheby's and RM auction in November 2013, the 1964 Ferrari 250 LM, which was been given a presale estimate of $12 million to $15 million, sold for $14.3 million including the buyers premium;
the other rare cars, 1956 Aston Martin DB 2/4 MKII sold for $2.3 million, 1955 Maserati A6G/2000 Spyder for $4.6 million, 933 Duesenberg Model SJ for $1.8 million, and 1938 Talbot-Lago T150-C SS Teardrop Cabriolet for $7.2 million.
- Mercedes, Record GT40 Head $220 Million Car Auction
- The Ferrari 250 GTO has been the most expensive car sold at $70,000,000 during a private auction by German racing driver Christian Glaesel to David MacNeil
- Warhols Mao portrait, a silk-screen 81"x61"portrait showing Mao in a dark blue jacket against a light blue background, was sold for record $17.4M in a Christies auction on November 15, 2006.
- The car license plate "I LOVE U" sold for US$180,000 (NT$5.9 million) in September 2006 in an auction in Hong Kong.
- The world's most expensive painting sold at auction:
- A Picasso's painting, Garcon a la Pipe (Boy with a Pipe), painted in 1905, was sold for record $104m (58m) at Sotheby's in New York in May 2004.
- In November, 2006, Sotheby's and Christie's auction houses sold:
- $87,963,000 for Gustav Klimt's "Adele Bloch-Bauer II"
- $40,336,000 for Gustav Klimt's "Birch Forest/Beech Forest"
- $40,336,000 for Paul Gauguin's "L'homme la hache"
- $38,096,000 for Ernst Ludwig Kirchner's "Berliner Strassenszene; Bume"
- $36,976,000 for Paul Czanne's "Nature morte aux fruits et pot de gingembre"
- $33,056,000 for Gustav Klimt's "Apple Tree I"
- $31,376,000 for Gustav Klimt's "Houses at Unterach on the Attersee"
- $31,096,000 for Amedeo Modigliani's "Le fils du concierge"
- $22,416,000 for Egon Schiele's "Einzelne Huser (Huser mit Bergen); Monk I"
- $15,920,000 for Amedeo Modigliani's "Vnus (Nu debout, nu mdicis)"
- Paul Czanne's "The Card Players"sold at a private sale for $250 million in 2011.
- Jackson Pollock's "No. 5, 1948" sold at Sotheby's for $140 million on November 2, 2006.
- Willem de Kooning's "Woman III" sold at Larry Gagosian's for $137.5 million on November 18, 2006.
- Gustav Klimt's "Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I", $152.6
million (sold at Christie's for $135 million on June 18, 2006.
- Vincent Van Gogh's "Portrait Du Docteur Gachet" sold at Christie's for $82.5 million on May 15, 1990.
- Pierre-Auguste Renoir's "Au Moulin De La Galette"sold at Sotheby's for $78.1 million in 1990.
- Pablo Picasso's "Garon A La Pipe"sold at Sotheby's for $104 million in 2004.
- Edvard Munch's "The Scream" sold for $119.9 million at Sotheby's on May 2, 2012.
- Pablo Picasso's "Nude, Green Leaves, And Bust" sold by Christie's for $106.5 million in 2010.
- Alberto Giacometti's "L'Homme Qui Marche" sold by Sotheby's for $104 million in 2010.
- Pablo Picasso's "Dora Maar Au Chat" sold at Sotheby's for $95.2 million in 2006.
- In Setember, 2012, Sotheby's and Christie's, Champion International Art Auction House Ltd's, K Auction's, Koller Auktionen Zrich's, Jianan International Auction Co., Ltd's auction houses sold:
- $5,761,844 for Ferdinand Hodler's "Kastanienallee bei Biberist"
- $4,915,541 for Sanyu's "红色背景的百合花 (Lilies in red background)"
- $4,264,933 for Ben Nicholson's "Violon et guitare"
- $3,218,500 for Hongren's "Seclusion amid mountains and streams"
- $3,013,907 for Anonymous Korean's "Album with Handwriting of Great Scholar Yi Hwang"
- $2,967,301 for Francisco de Goya's "Lot und seine Tchter"
- $2,751,029 for Huang Binhong's work -ink and color on paper, on handscroll
- $1,986,500 for Park Sookeun's "Tree and three figures"
- China Guardian with the headquarter in Beijing and market operations in Beijing, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Taiwan, Japan, and North America,
is a mainland Chinese auction house that specializes in the auction of Chinese artwork, including Chinese paintings (ink paintings, calligraphy, porcelain, oil paintings), furniture, sculptures, rare books, rubbings, jewellery and watches.
As 'number 2 auctioneer' behind Beijing Poly International Auction in China, since 1993 China Guardian held more than 1,200 auctions, with a total sales volume of
450,000 items at nearly USD $7 billion. The auction house broke regional records with its sale of Ming Dynasty painter Qiu Yings Red Cliff
when it sold for over $10 million
- The U.S. Mint began to release coins in 1793; before that, the coins circulating were colonial, from foreign or private minters. A rare gold coin made
by a noted craftsman in New York in 1787 has sold at auction in Dallas, TX for $9.36 million in January 2021. The coin, which
featured an eagle, came from the collection of the late New York businessman Donald G. Partrick, who purchased it in 1979 for $725,000.
The most expensive coin sold for $10,016,875 in January 2013 is
the Flowing Hair dollar; it was minted in 1794 and 1795 and was the first dollar coin issued by the U.S. Mint.
- On May 11, 2015, Pablo Picassos Les Femmes dAlger (Version O) sold at Christies New York for a record-breaking $179.4 million, including fees2. That made
it the most expensive artwork ever sold at auction at the time.This vibrant, cubist reinterpretation of Eugne Delacroixs Women of Algiers was the final piece in Picassos 15-part series (Versions A through O), painted in 195455. It was pursued
by five bidders in a tense, incremental battle before being claimed by a buyer represented by Brett Gorvy, Christies international head of contemporary art. The sale was part of Christies Looking Forward to the Past auction, which also
saw Alberto Giacomettis Pointing Man sculpture fetch $141.3 million, setting a record for any sculpture sold at auction.
- On February 5, 2015, Sothebys New York hosted its Important Jewels sale, which totaled an impressive $9,677,501. The auction was led
by signed pieces from legendary houses like Cartier, David Webb, and the elusive
master jeweler Joel Arthur Rosenthal (JAR). JARs creations are especially covetedhes known for producing only a few hundred pieces a year,
each meticulously crafted and often featuring bold color combinations and unexpected materials. His work rarely appears at auction, so when it does, collectors take notice. This sale was part of Sothebys broader jewelry calendar,
showcasing everything from antique brooches to modern masterpieces.
- On January 30, 2015, Sothebys New York held its Old
Master & 19th Century European Art auction, catalogued as Sale N09303, featuring 192 lots
of paintings, sculptures, and drawings from across centuries of European artistry. The total sale realized $2,326,337, showcasing works by artists such as Jacopo di Cione, Correggio, Lucas Cranach the Elder, and many others. This sale was part
of Sothebys annual Masters Week, which brings together a rich array of classical worksfrom Renaissance altarpieces to Romantic landscapes. While the overall total may seem modest compared to blockbuster contemporary art auctions, these events
are vital for preserving and circulating historical masterpieces.
- Claude Michel, known as Clodion, was one of the most celebrated sculptors of the 18th century, and his terracotta masterpiece
Bacchante With Grapes Carried By Two Bacchantes And A Bacchant
fetched a staggering $2,853,000 at Sothebys New York on January 29, 2015, setting a record for his work. This sculpture,
signed and dated CLODION.1800, is a tour de force of dynamic movement and classical influence. It was modeled after Clodion returned to Paris from Nancy, where he had stayed during the French Revolution. The piece reflects his deep study
of Roman antiquity and the influence of artists like Poussin. It also came with a rich provenance, having once belonged to Alfred Charles, Baron de Rothschild, and passed through several notable collections before its record-breaking auction.
- "St. Catherine of Alexandria and St. Sigismund of Burgundy" by
Lorenzo Veneziano was sold for $1,325,000 on 29 January 2015
at Sothebys in New York, far surpassing its original estimate of $600,000$800,000. Painted circa 1368, this pair of tempera-on-panel worksset against shimmering gold grounds with arched topsshowcases the Venetian masters refined elegance and
spiritual gravitas. Each saint is delicately inscribed beside their heads: CATA / RINA and SIGIS / MONDO, anchoring their identities in a composition that once likely formed part of a larger polyptych. Having passed through prestigious collections
and exhibitions across Europe, the panels stand as radiant survivors of 14th-century devotional art.
- A "Penschilderij" by Willem
van de Velde the Elder was sold for $5,429,000 on 29 January 2015 in New York. This intricate pen painting, titled Dutch Harbor in
a Calm with Small Vessels Inshore and Beached Among Fishermen, a Kaag at Anchor, a States Yacht and Men o War Offshore, showcases van de Veldes unparalleled mastery of maritime detail. Crafted with ink on panel, the work exemplifies the
Dutch Golden Ages obsession with naval precision and atmospheric serenity. Van de Velde, often regarded as the Rembrandt of marine art, used delicate quillwork and subtle ink washes to evoke depth, motion, and moodtransforming a quiet harbor
scene into a symphony of craftsmanship.
- Francis Bacon's painting "Three Studies of Lucian Freud" was sold $142.4 million at an auction in New York
in 2013. Francis Bacons Three Studies of Lucian Freud ignited the art world in November 2013, when it sold for a staggering $142.4 million at Christies in New York, setting a new record for the most expensive artwork ever sold at auction at the time.
Painted in 1969, this triptych captures Bacons close friend and artistic rival Lucian Freud in three raw, contorted poses, each panel radiating psychological tension and intensity. The bidding war was fierce, with the hammer finally falling after just
six minutes, and the piece eclipsed the previous record held by Edvard Munchs The Scream. A visceral masterpiece, its not just a paintingits a confrontation between two titans of 20th-century art.
- Giacometti's sculpture "Walking Man I"
was sold $104.3 million at an auction in London in 2010. Alberto Giacomettis hauntingly elegant bronze sculpture Walking Man I shattered records when it sold for $104.3 million at a Sothebys auction in London in 2010, becoming the most expensive
artwork ever sold at auction at the time. Cast in 1961, the life-size figurelean, elongated, and mid-strideembodies Giacomettis existential exploration of the human condition. The bidding frenzy lasted just eight minutes, with an anonymous phone
bidder claiming the piece. This sculpture wasnt just a saleit was a seismic moment that reaffirmed modern arts power to captivate and command staggering value.
- The Treskilling Yellow (Sweden), a rare 1855 stamp, has an estimated value at least $2.3m. The Treskilling Yellow, Swedens crown jewel of philatelic misprints, is
a one-of-a-kind 1855 postage stamp born from a simple color error that turned into a multimillion-dollar marvel. Intended to be printed in blue-green, the 3-skilling denomination was mistakenly rendered in the golden hue reserved for the 8-skilling
stamp, creating a singular anomaly that has captivated collectors for over a century. First unearthed by a curious schoolboy in 1886, this lone survivor has passed through the hands of royalty and elite connoisseurs, ultimately commanding an estimated
value of at least $2.3 million. A tiny slip of paper, yet a towering legend in the world of rare collectibles.
- A 1943 Lincoln penny, which the Denver mint mistakenly struck in bronze, has sold for $1.7 million at Legend Numismatics.
That tiny coin packed a massive punch in the world of numismatics. In 2010, a 1943-D Lincoln cent, mistakenly struck in bronze at the Denver Mint, sold for a jaw-dropping $1.7 million through Legend Numismatics. During World War II, the U.S. Mint
switched to zinc-coated steel for pennies to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few leftover bronze planchets from 1942 accidentally made their way into the presses, resulting in one of the rarest minting errors in American history.
This particular coin is the only known example from the Denver Mint, certified PCGS MS64BN, and is considered the most valuable cent in the world. The buyer, a passionate collector from the Southwest, became the first person ever to assemble a
complete set of genuine 1943 bronze cents from Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Denver. Not bad for a penny.
- In April 2011, Paul Czannes The Card Players (189293) was sold in a private transaction to the royal family of Qatar for an estimated $250 million, making it the most expensive painting ever sold at the time. The work is part of a celebrated
series of five paintings depicting Provenal peasants engaged in a quiet game of cards, and the version purchased was the last remaining in private hands. The sale, brokered from the estate of Greek shipping magnate George Embiricos, marked a
significant moment in the art market, highlighting both the cultural ambitions of Qatar and the enduring value of Czannes legacy.
- On April 13, 2004, a Shanghai buyer paid $1.1 million (approximately 9,000,201 yuan) for the mobile phone number 135-8585-8585 in an online auction on EachNet.com, one of Chinas largest e-commerce platforms. The number was considered extremely
auspicious because its pronunciation in Chinese closely resembles the phrase let me be rich, be rich, be rich, be rich. This cultural association with wealth and luck sparked intense bidding70 bids in totaland made it the highest price ever
paid for a phone number in mainland China at the time. Both the buyer and seller remained anonymous, though the seller was reportedly an online shoe salesman who collected phone numbers as a hobby.
- On September 10, 2011, Freemans auction house in Philadelphia made headlines when it sold an imperial-style double dragon white jade seal for $3.5 million, setting a record for the highest-selling single lot in the companys history.
Originally estimated at just $30,000$50,000, the Qing Dynasty seal drew intense bidding from collectors, ultimately validating its potential imperial provenance. The sale not only shattered expectations but also contributed to Freemans
most successful auction to date, with total sales exceeding $8 million.
- In July 2002, a 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eaglea $20 gold coin considered one of the rarest and most storied in numismatic historywas sold at auction by Sothebys and Stacks for $7,590,020, making it the most valuable coin in the world
at the time. Originally minted during the Great Depression, nearly all of the 445,500 coins produced were ordered to be melted down after President Franklin D. Roosevelt banned private ownership of gold. However, a few escaped destruction,
and the coin sold in 2002 was once part of the collection of Egypts King Farouk. Its sale required a special agreement with the U.S. Treasury to legalize private ownership, and the final price included a symbolic $20 to officially monetize
the coin.
- The 2011 auction to dine in New York city with Warren E. Buffett, chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, had a record $2,626,411. Hedge fund manager Ted Weschler paid $2,626,411 for the chance to dine with Warren Buffett in New York City.
In fact, he won the auction two years in a row (2010 and 2011), spending over $5 million total. That investment paid off: Buffett later hired him as an investment manager at Berkshire Hathaway. The final charity lunch with Buffett
in 2022 actually fetched a record-breaking $19 million. That marked the end of Buffetts participation in the annual GLIDE Foundation auction, which raised over $53 million across two decades. In 2024, the tradition was passed on to
Marc Benioff, CEO of Salesforce, who now hosts the charity lunch to continue supporting GLIDEs mission.
- Christies, which is the world's largest auction house, was established around 1766. Christies, the iconic auction house that dominates the global art market today,
traces its origins to James Christie, who officially founded it in 1766 in Londons Pall Mall. That year marked the publication of its first auction catalog, signaling the start of a legacy that would shape the fine art world. Intriguingly,
advertisements for Christies sales have been discovered dating back to 1759, suggesting that James Christie may have been active in the auction scene even before the formal establishment of his firm. From selling humble household itemsincluding
bedpans and pillowcasesto auctioning masterpieces by Van Gogh and rare jewels, Christies journey from modest beginnings to international prestige is nothing short of remarkable.
- Sothebys, which is the world's second-largest auction house, held its first auction in 1744. Sothebys, now a titan in the global art market, began its journey on
March 11, 1744, when Samuel Baker, a London bookseller, conducted the firms first auction. The sale featured the library of Sir John Stanley, filled with several hundred scarce and valuable books in all branches of Polite Literature, and
brought in a modest 826. Originally focused on rare books and manuscripts, Sothebys gradually expanded into fine art, antiquities, and luxury goods, eventually becoming one of the most prestigious auction houses in the world. Its legacy is
steeped in centuries of cultural history, with sales that have included everything from Napoleons exile library to multimillion-dollar masterpieces.
- Dorotheum, which is one of the world's oldest auction houses, held its first auction in 1707.
Dorotheum stands as a grand relic of European auction history, having held its first auction in 1707 after being founded by Emperor Joseph I in Vienna, Austria. Originally established as the Versatz- und Fragamt zu Wien (Displacement and
Inquiry Office for Vienna), it later moved into the former Dorotheer Monastery, which inspired its current name. Over the centuries, Dorotheum evolved from a local institution into Continental Europes largest auction house for art items,
hosting over 700 auctions annually across more than 40 categories, including fine art, antiques, jewelry, and imperial memorabilia. With its neo-Baroque palace setting and a legacy spanning more than 300 years, Dorotheum remains a vibrant
cultural hub and a symbol of Austrias enduring passion for the arts.
- Bonhams, which is an auctioneer of fine art and antiques, held its first auction in 1793.
Bonhams, one of the worlds oldest and most respected auction houses, traces its roots back to 1793, when it was founded in London by Thomas Dodd, an antique print dealer, and Walter Bonham, a book specialist. In the bustling Georgian auction scene,
Bonhams quickly carved out a niche, offering rare books, fine prints, and antiques to an elite clientele. Over the centuries, it expanded its scope to include jewelry, porcelain, arms and armor, and even wine. Today, Bonhams hosts more than 450
auctions annually across 60+ categories, with flagship salerooms in London, New York, Los Angeles, and Hong Kong. Its enduring legacy blends tradition with global reach, making it a cornerstone of the international art and antiques market.
- Phillips de Pury & Company, which is an auctioneers and art dealership,
held its first auction in 1796. Phillips de Pury & Company, originally founded as Phillips in 1796 by Harry Phillips, began its journey in Westminster, London, just steps away from the legendary Christieswhere Harry had previously worked as
a clerk. The firm quickly gained prominence, hosting twelve auctions in its first year and attracting high-profile patrons like Napoleon Bonaparte and Beau Brummell. Over time, the company evolved through various names and ownerships, including
a notable era under Simon de Pury, who steered the brand toward contemporary art, design, and photography. Though now simply known as Phillips, its legacy as one of the oldest and most dynamic auction houses continues to thrive, blending
centuries-old prestige with a modern, cutting-edge focus.
- Freemans Auction House, which is an auctioneer in
Philadelphia, PA, held its first auction in 1805. Freemans Auction House, founded in 1805 by Tristram Bampfylde Freeman, holds the distinction of being Americas oldest
auction house. Its inaugural sale took place at the Merchants Coffee House in Philadelphia, where Freeman hammered down bales of cloth and other dry goodsmarking the beginning of a legacy that would span centuries. Originally granted a charter
by Pennsylvania Governor Thomas McKean, Freeman enjoyed a monopoly on auctions in the city until 18222. Over time, the house evolved from selling real estate and ship cargo to handling fine art, antiques, and jewelry. Today, operating as Freemans
| Hindman after a 2024 merger, it continues to be a cornerstone of the American auction scene, blending deep historical roots with modern market expertise.
- Lyon & Turnbull, which is Scotlands oldest auction house, held its first auction in 1826. Lyon & Turnbull, Scotlands oldest auction house, held its inaugural auction
in 1826, marking the beginning of nearly two centuries of art and antique expertise. Founded by Jonathan Lyon, the firm quickly became a fixture in Edinburghs cultural landscape, conducting regular sales that included everything from fine furniture
to royal memorabiliasuch as pieces from Queen Victorias Balmoral residence. Over time, it expanded into a neoclassical building designed by Archibald Elliot, and today operates internationally with offices in London and Glasgow, hosting over 45
auctions annually. Its strategic alliance with Freemans of Philadelphia, Americas oldest auction house, adds a transatlantic flair to its storied legacy.
- Stockholms Auktionsverk (Swedish for "Stockholm's Auction House"),
founded in 1674 in Sweden, is the world's oldest auction house. Stockholms Auktionsverk,
founded in 1674 by Baron Claes Rlamb, holds the remarkable title of being the worlds oldest auction house still in operation. Established in Stockholm under royal initiative, it began as a civic institution designed to regulate the sale
of goods and estates. Over the centuries, it has served an illustrious clientele including King Charles XI, Gustav III, and literary icons like August Strindberg. Today, it blends its rich heritage with modern innovation, operating across
multiple locations in Sweden, Finland, and Germany, and offering both prestigious live auctions and a robust online platform. With over 350 years of history, Stockholms Auktionsverk remains a cultural cornerstone in the Nordic art and
antiques market.
- There are many ways that improve the chances to win online bids:
- Evaluate the auction sites - Investigate the seller's credibility by searching on the Internet
or visit FTC.gov for reviews of seller practices
by previous customers.
- Bidding on a budget - Set a budget limit on how much you plan to spend for an item.
- Use third party payment services - This allows you to be able cancel charges for
unsatisfactory or non-delivered goods.
- Use online escrow services - These services will keep your money to pay for the seller
when you satisfy with the delivered goods.
- Use a credit card - Your credit card company allows you to charge back an unauthorized or erroneous charge.
- Consider online auction insurance - Insurance company will pay you back money
(some or in full - depending on your policy) when the seller fails to deliver, or the goods arent what was promised.
- The earliest recorded incidents of established auctions were by the Babylonians, an ancient
Akkadian-speaking state and cultural area
based in central-southern Mesopotamia around 500 BC (present-day Iraq and Syria);
These auctions dealt in the sale of women for marriage purposes. The ancient Romans were the developers of the more formalized auction process. The Romans developed titles for auction functionaries and had formal places called Atrium auctionariums where
auctions were conducted. Auctions were also held for the selling of the spoils of battle by auctioneers accompanying the Roman legions. Modem auctions boomed in the post WWII era with sales of goods and personal estates through auctions held by both private
enterprise and the government.
- Generally the major accepted types of auctions include Ascending-bid (English or Japanese), Descending-bid (Dutch), Sealed-bid, and Vickery. These formats are foundational in auction theory and are used in various real-world applications,
from art sales and government contracts to online marketplaces and spectrum licensing.
- Ascending-bid auctions, such as the English auction, where bidders openly compete by offering increasingly higher prices until no further bids are made. A variation is the Japanese auction, where bidders must continuously accept higher
prices or drop out.
- Descending-bid auctions, also known as Dutch auctions, where the auctioneer starts at a high price and lowers it until a bidder accepts the current price.
- Sealed-bid auctions, where all bids are submitted confidentially and opened simultaneously; the highest bidder wins and pays either their own bid (first-price) or the second-highest bid (second-price).
- Vickrey auctions, a specific type of sealed-bid auction named after economist William Vickrey, in which the highest bidder wins but pays the second-highest bid, encouraging truthful bidding strategies.
- The English auction, an open-outcry ascending dynamic auction, is the most common type of auction and probably the most familiar.
The winning bidder receives the item at the highest price. The auction uses upward or "ascending" movement of potential buyer bids until the bidding stops. Bids may be oral, signaled, written or by third party proxy. One item or groups of items can be auctioned. Auction
time frames vary but are generally short. Items frequently are displayed to potential bidders prior to the auction with reserve prices cited. eBay is a good e-commerce application example.
- A Dutch auction is one of several similar types of descending-bid auctions for buying or selling goods, in which the auctioneer begins with a high
asking price in the case of selling, and lowers it until some participant accepts the price, or it reaches a predetermined reserve price.
The Dutch auction is an open, "descending" bid auction designed to handle multiple, identical items (usually in a lot). Historically, this type was used to sell tulip bulbs. In this auction, the seller sets an opening price. If no bids are made, the price is lowered until a bid is received.
This first bidder wins the first option of buying all or a part of the lot. Other bidders have an opportunity to buy once the demand at that price is exhausted. Additional bidders may bid a lower price. This cycle continues until the lot is gone.
- The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coup, with only two ever built, is often hailed as the rarest car in existence. One of these silver-bodied legends sold for a staggering $143 million in 2022, making it the most expensive car ever sold at
auction, and cementing its status as a crown jewel of motoring history. Equally mythical is the Bugatti Type 57 SC Atlantic, crafted between 1936 and 1938. Only four Atlantics were produced, and just three are known to survive today. With their
riveted dorsal seams and flowing Art Deco lines, these cars are valued at upwards of $40 million, with one rumored to be worth over $100 million if ever found and sold. Then theres the Maybach Exelero, a one-off luxury coupe commissioned in
2005 by Fulda Tires to test high-performance rubber. Packing a twin-turbo V12, it reaches 218 mph and boasts a price tag of around $8 million. Its dramatic styling and celebrity appearanceslike in Jay-Zs Lost One videohave made it a cult icon.
Each of these cars isnt just raretheyre rolling works of art, steeped in history, engineering brilliance, and mystique.
- The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe holds the crown as the most expensive car ever sold at auction, fetching a jaw-dropping $142 million at an RM Sothebys private auction in May 2022. This silver Gullwing coupe wasnt just rareit
was one of only two ever built, and it had never been offered for public sale before. Named after Rudolf Uhlenhaut, Mercedes-Benzs chief engineer at the time, the car was a road-legal version of the W196 Grand Prix racer driven by legends like
Juan Manuel Fangio. With its sleek design, racing pedigree, and historical significance, its often considered the Mona Lisa of motoring. The sale not only shattered previous recordslike the $48.4 million paid for a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO in
2018but also marked a turning point in the collector car market, proving that automotive history can rival fine art in value and prestige.
- Most cars end up at auction because it's a fast, efficient way for dealers, banks, and individuals to offload vehicles that are difficult to sell through traditional channels. These can include cars that are too old, have high mileage, accident
histories, title issues, or simply don't fit a dealerships inventorylike a luxury coupe at a budget-focused lot2. Auctions accept vehicles as-is, which means sellers dont have to invest in repairs or marketing. Repossessed cars, lease returns,
insurance-totaled vehicles, and trade-ins that dont align with a dealers brand are all common auction candidates3. Even brand-new cars can show up if dealers overstock or misjudge demand. The auction system keeps inventory moving, minimizes financial losses, and connects mismatched vehicles with buyers who actually want them.
- The tulip bulb trade helped popularize the Dutch auction technique, where prices start high and drop until a buyer accepts the offera method still used today in the bustling flower markets of Aalsmeer, Holland. Home to Royal FloraHolland,
the worlds largest flower auction, this massive facility handles an astonishing 43 million flowers and 5 million plants daily, with activity peaking around holidays like Valentines Day. The auction draws thousands of buyers from around the globe,
conducting tens of thousands of transactions each day in a high-speed, clock-driven format that leaves bidders mere seconds to act. The scale is staggering: the building spans nearly 775,000 square meters, and the operation influences global flower
pricing and trends. While the old currency reference of 2 Dutch Guilders is outdated (the euro replaced the guilder in 2002), the economic impact remains enormous60% of the worlds flower and plant trade flows through Dutch auctions, with
Aalsmeer at the heart of it all.
- A sealed bid is a type of bid submitted in a confidential manner, where the value of the bid is unknown to competitors until all bids are opened simultaneously at a designated time. Typically used in government contracts, real estate,
and procurement, sealed bids are placed in envelopes or submitted electronically and are not reviewed until the deadline has passed. This format encourages bidders to offer their best possible price upfront, since they have only one chance
to bid and cannot adjust based on others offers. It contrasts with open bidding, where participants can see and respond to competing bids in real time.
- Vickrey auction is a type of sealed-bid auction. Bidders submit written bids without knowing the bid of the other people in the auction. The highest bidder wins but the price paid is the second-highest bid.
In this auction, named after Willliam Vickery, a 1996 Nobel Prize recipient (Economics), each participant submits a sealed bid. The highest bidder wins the auction but only pays the price of the second highest bid. This auction fosters a bid strategy that reflects the buyer's true valuation of the item.
The Vickery approach gives all competing buyers an incentive to disclose their true best price since they can safely bid a price that would yield zero profit and, if the winner, ensure a profit. The process can be used in a reverse auction method with the cheapest price winning, but paying the second lowest bid price.
- While auctions are most associated in the public imagination with the sale of antiques, paintings, rare collectibles and expensive wines, auctions are also used for
commodities, livestock, radio spectrum and used cars.
- An English Auction, which is an online forum or a place, is often used for selling antiques, artwork, collectables and real estate. There must be at least two bidders at an English auction. During the auction, participants
bid openly against each other by calling out their bid amounts or submitting the bids electronically; the auction will end when no one is willing to bid higher, at which point the highest pays their bid amount and gets the item..
- According to ancient sourcesmost notably the Greek historian HerodotusBabylon held annual marriage auctions around 500 BC where young women were publicly auctioned off to prospective husbands. These events were organized in a central
location, and women were presented one by one by an auctioneer. The most attractive women were auctioned first, often fetching high bride prices from wealthy bidders. The money raised from these sales was then used to provide dowries for
less attractive women, who were essentially paired off with men willing to accept compensation to marry them1. This system was designed to ensure that all women found husbands, regardless of beauty or wealth, and it reflected Babylonian
societys emphasis on marriage as a social and economic institution. Although the practice may seem exploitative by modern standards, it was considered a structured and legal form of matrimonial arrangement at the time.
- During the Roman Empire, slavesoften captured in warwere publicly auctioned off in places like the Forum Romanum, where they were displayed on platforms (catastae) and wore placards (tituli) listing their age, skills, and any defects.
Buyers could inspect them physically, and prices varied depending on attributes such as education, health, and origin, with skilled Greek slaves fetching high prices. Slaves filled various roles, from domestic servants and farm laborers to
gladiators and public workers, and were legally considered property. These auctions, held in central public spaces, reflected how deeply slavery was embedded in Roman society and economy, with some Roman thinkers commenting on the practice,
though it remained widely accepted.
- In early March 1859 an enormous slave action took place at the Race Course three miles outside Savannah, Georgia. Four hundred
thirty-six slaves were to be put on the auction block including men, women, children and infants.
- The mid-1700s marked a pivotal moment in auction history with the founding of Sothebys in 1744 and Christies in 1766, both in London. These prestigious auction houses began by selling books and fine art, eventually expanding into
a wide range of luxury goods and collectibles2. During this same period, auctions migrated to the American Colonies, where they became a common method for disposing of propertyespecially in cases of debt liquidation or non-payment of
taxes. Public auctions were used to sell land, goods, and even enslaved individuals, often conducted by sheriffs or court-appointed officials. This practice laid the groundwork for the American auction system, which evolved into a key
mechanism for commerce and legal transactions in colonial society.
- The word "auction" was first recorded in English in 1595, according to the Oxford English Dictionary, appearing in Warners translation of "Plautus Menaechmi" in reference to the sale of slaves and household goods.
By the late 1600s, auctions of art and books were already taking place in Britain, often held in coffeehouses and taverns in London, with events documented in publications like the London Gazette. These early auctions were
accompanied by printed catalogs, some of which still survive, and they laid the foundation for the more formalized auction practices that would emerge in the 18th century with the founding of major houses like Sothebys and Christies.
- Auctions have been around for over 2,000 years. It's a process of buying and selling goods or services by offering them up for bid, taking bids, and
then selling the item to the highest bidder or buying the item from the lowest bidder.
- An auction is a process of buying and selling goods or
services by offering them up for bid, taking bids, and then selling the item to the highest bidder. An auctioneer may announce prices, while bidders submit bids vocally or electronically. Participants bid openly against one another, with each subsequent bid being higher than the previous bid.
Auctions have been recorded as early as 500 BC in Hellenistic societies, such as ancient Greece and Rome.
- During an auction, an item is placed up for sale and bidders can bid on it until it reaches a point where no more bids are coming in. Auctions have been used for everything from arranging marriages to
auctioning antiquities and works of fine art. An auctioneer may announce prices, bidders may call out their bids themselves or have a proxy call out a bid on their behalf, or bids may be submitted electronically with the highest current bid publicly displayed. Sadly, the history of auctions
began with women being auctioned off for sale as wives to affluent men in Ancient Greece; but a few hundred years later, Romans used auctions to sell family estates, and to sell goods that were won in war. For the U.S.,
the Pilgrims, one of the first American settlers, were known to use auctions as a common method of selling crops, livestock, tools,
tobacco, and even entire farms.
- An auction bid becomes legally binding the moment it is accepted by the auctioneer, which is typically signaled by the fall of the hammer or the official close of bidding in an online auction. At that point, a contract is formed between the
bidder and the seller, governed by principles of offer and acceptance under contract law. Each bid is considered a formal offer to purchase the item. Once the auctioneer accepts the highest bid, both parties are locked into a legally enforceable
agreement: the seller must deliver the item, and the buyer must pay the agreed price. Failure to do so can result in legal consequences, including forfeiture of deposits, blacklisting from future auctions, or even lawsuits for breach of contract
or specific performance if the item is unique. This applies across various auction formatslive, silent, or onlineand underscores the importance of understanding the terms before placing a bid.
- Auctioneers operate in a world where charisma meets commerce, earning an average of $58,864 annually, though top performers can push past $69,000 depending on region and specialty. Their income often stems from commissionstypically 1015%
of total salesalongside flat fees or shared buyer premiums. Those commanding high-end auctions for fine art, luxury goods, or real estate can see dramatically higher payouts, especially when aligned with prestigious houses or running independent
operations. Whether calling bids in cattle barns or glittering galleries, the auctioneers voice is both a paycheck and a performance, turning fast talk into fast cash.
- Striking the right balance in silent auction timing is key to maximizing engagement and results. In-person silent auctions typically run for 60 to 90 minutes, giving attendees time to register, mingle, browse, and bid without feeling rushed.
Online silent auctions, on the other hand, benefit from a longer runway7 to 10 days is often idealallowing for broader participation, strategic promotion, and momentum-building over time. The sweet spot depends on the audiences habits, the
value and variety of items, and the overall fundraising goals. Too short, and bidders may miss out; too long, and urgency fades. The best auctions build anticipation, sustain excitement, and close with a flourish.
- Auctioneers captivate crowds with a rapid-fire chant that blends numbers, rhythmic filler phrases, and compressed language into a mesmerizing performance. This hypnotic cadenceoften peppered with lines like now two, now two, will ya
give me two? or dollar bidder nowisnt just theatrics; its a finely tuned strategy to drive urgency, maintain momentum, and keep bidders locked in. The chants musicality creates a psychological tempo that fuels competitive bidding,
while the repetition and clarity ensure no one misses a beat. Its part salesmanship, part showmanship, and entirely essential to the pulse of a live auction.
- Stockholms Auktionsverk, founded in 1674 by Baron Claes Rlamb, holds the title of the worlds oldest auction house still in operation. Located in Stockholm, Sweden, it has been a cornerstone of European art and antiques trading for centuries.
Over the years, its served some illustrious clients, including King Charles XI, who sold hunting rifles there; King Gustav III, who acquired a Rembrandt painting titled Kitchen Maid; and August Strindberg, the famed playwright, who purchased
books through the house. Today, Stockholms Auktionsverk blends its rich heritage with modern innovation. Owned by Auctionet, it operates a robust digital platform while maintaining its commitment to personal service and expert curation.
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