From the Magna Carta, which laid the foundation of modern democracy, to the Codex Leicester, written by Leonardo da Vinci, here is a list of the most expensive books ever sold at auctions!
Data: Sotheby’s
Sold for: $31.3 million*
Sold in: 2007
The Magna Carta was the first document establishing the principle that the King is not above the law, laying the foundation of democracy.
*Adjusted for inflation according to 2023 prices
Sold for: $35.8 million*
Sold in: 1983
Commissioned in the 12th century by Duke Henry, the gospel was intended for the altar of the Brunswick Cathedral in Germany.
Sold for: $36.5 million*
Sold in: 1998
Created between 1399 and 1407, it is a religious service book used to celebrate Mass on different holidays.
Sold for: $38.1 million
Sold in: 2023
Dating to the 9th-10th century, the Codex Sassoon contains all 24 books of the Hebrew bible.
Image: www.sothebysrealty.ae
Sold for: $43.5 million*
Sold in: 2017
Giving a pivotal account on Jesus Christ, the Book of Mormon (1830) is the foundational text of the Latter-Day Saint movement.
Image: swanngalleries.com
Sold for: $63.3 million*
Sold in: 1994
Bought by Bill Gates, the codex, written by Leonardo da Vinci features over 300 illustrations and entries in astronomy, fossils, etc.
Image: uffizi.it
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