- Leonardo da Vinci’s “Salvator Mundi”: This masterpiece painting, depicting Jesus Christ, is one of the most rare and valuable artworks in the world. It was sold at auction in 2017 for a record-breaking $450.3 million and is rumored to have been acquired by a billionaire collector.
- The Codex Leicester: This collection of scientific writings by Leonardo da Vinci is considered one of the most rare and valuable manuscripts in existence. It was purchased by Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates for over $30 million in 1994.
- The Pinner Qing Dynasty Vase: This rare Chinese porcelain vase from the Qing Dynasty was sold at auction for £53 million (approximately $70 million) in 2010. It is believed to have been owned by several prominent collectors, including billionaire Sheikh Saud bin Mohammed Al-Thani of Qatar.
- The Badminton Cabinet: This ornate and intricately designed cabinet, created in the 18th century, is considered one of the most valuable pieces of furniture in the world. It was sold at auction in 2004 for over $36 million and is rumored to have been acquired by billionaire Prince Hans-Adam II of Liechtenstein.
- The Nizam of Hyderabad’s Jewels: This legendary collection of jewelry, belonging to the Nizams of Hyderabad in India, is renowned for its exceptional size, quality, and historical significance. While much of the collection is now housed in museums, some pieces are believed to be in private collections, possibly owned by wealthy individuals in India or abroad.
- The Pink Star Diamond: This rare and exquisite pink diamond, weighing over 59 carats, is one of the largest and most valuable pink diamonds ever discovered. It was sold at auction in 2017 for over $71 million to Hong Kong-based jewelry company Chow Tai Fook, whose owner is a billionaire.
- The Rothschild Fabergé Egg: This jeweled egg, created by the House of Fabergé in the early 20th century, is one of the most rare and valuable Fabergé eggs in existence. It was reportedly purchased by billionaire Viktor Vekselberg in 2004 for over $100 million.
- The Gutenberg Bible: This rare and historically significant Bible, printed by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15th century, is one of the first books ever printed using movable type. While most copies are held by institutions, some wealthy individuals, such as Bill Gates, are known to own copies of this rare book.
These are just a few examples of the rare items and antiques that have been owned by billionaires around the world. Many other valuable and historically significant pieces are held in private collections, away from the public eye.