6 Of The Most Expensive (And Interesting) Items Sold At Auction
Tuesday, May 12th, 2020

There are many different items you can find at auction. From farm equipment and firearms to collectibles and rare paintings, auctions have some of the best items around. Here are some of the most expensive and interesting things that have been sold at these events.
1. A 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO
Car auctions aren’t always high-end, which is why they are popular when people are searching for a new personal or work vehicle. But, many car auctions in larger cities are KNOWN for having the highest-quality vehicles. In 2018, a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO sold for $48.4 million at auction. This was the most money ever paid for a vehicle at a public auction.
2. An iconic dress worn by Marilyn Monroe
This star’s rendition of happy birthday became iconic not just because she sang it to President John F. Kennedy, but because of her dress. Her alluring image was enhanced by her beautiful dress, which sold at auction for $4.8 million in 2016.
3. A diamond called “The Pink Star”
This diamond, weighing in at 59.6 carats, was sold at an auction in Hong Kong for $71 million in 2017. Auctions are known for selling beautiful new and vintage jewelry, but this jewel is the most expensive ever sold at one of these events.
4. A setlist written by Kurt Cobain
It may look like a pizza plate with words on it, but this item sold for $22,400 at auction. It had a list of 15 songs written in black marker that were played at a nightclub in 1990 in Washington, D.C.
5. A bathtub shaped like a hippopotamus
Bathtubs don’t seem glamorous or expensive (unless you need a new one) but a golden bathtub shaped like a hippo sold at a New York auction for $4.3 million! This is more of an artwork than a plumbing fixture. It was constructed of brass and copper in 1969 and contains a sink and vanity as well.
6. A penny and a dime
Coin collecting is a popular hobby and many enthusiasts have found great pieces for their collection at auctions. Many people enjoy selling coins, too, especially when they go for thousands of dollars.
One penny from 1943 sold for $204,000 at auction. It was made from copper, which was a mistake since all of the pennies released that year were minted from zinc-coated steel to save copper for the war. Another rare coin, a 1894-S Barber Dime, sold at auction went for $1.32 million. There were only 24 made and only 9 remain, so this is a real treasure.
Finding unique items at auction
If you are attending an auction, always keep an eye out for hidden treasures. You never know what you might find! At High Plains Auctioneers, we hold a variety of events, including used equipment and living estate auctions. Call us at (806) 244-6776 or Contact Us by Email for more information about our events. Don’t forget to check out our Upcoming Auctions!