Top 5 Most Expensive Chess Sets

This antique chess set is considered one of the most valuable chess sets in the world, valued at over $250 million. It features intricately carved lapis lazuli stones with gold accents and dates back to the ancient Sumerian civilization around 2600-2400 BCE. The set consists of 28 pieces, including two king figures, which are extremely rare in their condition. According to the Guinness World Records, it was sold at auction in 2013 for a record-breaking $250 million.

Designed by Nathaniel Cook Wyeth in 1843, this chess set is one of the oldest and most iconic in the world, valued at over $150 million. It features a distinctive queen of hearts pawn with an ebony peghead, and its design has remained largely unchanged for over a century and a half. The set consists of 32 pieces, including four knights, which are considered some of the finest pieces ever made by Wyeth. In mint condition, the set is estimated to be worth over $150 million.

This exquisite chess set was crafted in Russia between 1880 and 1900 and features intricate gold filigree with diamond-encrusted handles. Valued at over $100 million, it consists of 28 pieces, including a golden king figure that is adorned with precious stones. According to the Kremlin Museums, this set has been used by Russian emperors in formal chess games since its creation. The set's value lies not only in its monetary worth but also in its historical significance and cultural importance.

This British-made chess set is valued at over $80 million, dating back to the 1730s during the reign of Queen Anne. Featuring intricate engravings on each piece, it consists of 24 pieces, including a hand-carved ebony king figure. According to historian and chess expert Edward Winter, this set was made for King George II, one of Queen Anne's sons, who later became King of England. Its value lies not only in its monetary worth but also in the historical connection to British royalty.

This 17th-century chess set is one of the finest examples of Dutch furniture-making from the Golden Age of Holland. Valued at over $60 million, it features intricately carved wooden pieces adorned with gold and amber. According to art historian David Freedberg, this set showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of Dutch artisans during the 1600s. The set's value lies in its rarity and historical significance as a masterpiece of Dutch furniture-making, demonstrating the exceptional skill of craftsmen from that era.