8 More Wildly Expensive Chess Sets
The two most expensive chess sets in the world have quite a margin on the other 8 in the top 10 list.
#3. The Jewel Royale Chess Set - $9.8 Million
Despite its eye-watering price and being often cited as the most expensive chess set in the world, the Jewel Royale Chess Set is surrounded by controversy. Some artists have questioned its true value, and some think the Jewel Royale chess set has an actual value closer to $1.3 million.
Despite that, the official valuation remains at $9.8 million. This luxury chess set is crafted from gold and platinum, with pieces adorned with diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires. It represents the ultimate in opulence and craftsmanship.
So far, only the King piece has been crafted for the Jewel Royale Chess Set, which commissioned the work. If the rest of the set is completed, it’ll instantly become the most expensive chess set in the world.
#4. The Art of War Chess Set
Designed by Victor F. Scharstein, the Art of War Chess Set is priced at $1 million. Each piece is made of gold and platinum, and decorated with diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. This set showcases extreme wealth and the intricate craftsmanship that went into creating it.
#5. The J. Grahl Chess Set
Commissioned in 1972 by a private collector, the J. Grahl Chess Set is valued at $750,000. It features solid gold and silver pieces with intricate detailing and a beautifully designed board. This set stands as a testament to exquisite craftsmanship and artistic design.
#6. The Royal Diamond Chess Set
Created by Charles Hollander, the Royal Diamond Chess Set is valued at $600,000. It includes 1,168 grams of 14-carat white gold and 9,900 black and white diamonds. This luxurious set combines regal design with the allure of precious stones, making it a true collector's item.
#7. The Carolingian Chess Set
Priced at around $395,000, the Carolingian Chess Set features pieces inspired by the Carolingian Empire. Crafted from gold and silver and encrusted with precious stones, this set brings a historical and luxurious touch to the game of chess.
#8. The Baccarat Crystal Chess Set
The Baccarat Crystal Chess Set is a stunning example of elegance and luxury. Made entirely from crystal, this set is valued at approximately $287,000. The pieces are crafted with precision and clarity, making The Baccarat Crystal one of the top chess sets in the world.
#9. The Gold and Diamond Chess Set by Piero Benzoni
Valued at $250,000, this chess set by Piero Benzoni is made from solid gold and decorated with diamonds. Each piece is a miniature sculpture, making this set not only a game but also a work of art. It reflects the opulence and grandeur associated with luxury chess sets.
#10. The Pagoda Figurines Chess Set
The Pagoda Figurines Chess Set is valued at approximately $696,260. This elegant chess set dates back to between AD 1720 and AD 1730 and is known for its rich historical value and luxurious materials, including silver, silver-gilt, brass, copper, mother of pearl, and stained ivory inlaid boulle marquetry.
The figurines, crafted from mother-of-pearl and aventurine glass, represent a blend of European and Oriental influences, making it a highly sought-after collector's item among chess lovers.
These sets are the top 10 in our list, but there are several other notable mentions, including:
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Von Münch Chess Set: The Christian I von Münch Chess Set is valued at approximately $552,570. Among other features, it varies ivory and tortoiseshell squares inlaid with silver stars and scrolls.
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Issus Chess Set: The Battle of Issus Chess Set, worth an estimated $1.9 million, depicts the historic battle between Alexander the Great and the Persians with detailed mini sculptures and mechanized pieces made from 14-karat gold and adorned with semi-precious stones.
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Pagoda Figurines Chess Set: This set is valued at $696,260 and dates back to 1720-1730. It features high-end materials like silver, ivory, and mother of pearl, with figurines crafted from aventurine glass and tortoiseshell bases.
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Summary: Heirloom Quality Chess Sets
The world of luxury chess sets is a fascinating blend of art, history, and opulence. From the breathtaking Pearl or Jewel Royale sets to the intricate historical designs of the Pagoda Figurines and Battle of Issus chess set, these masterpieces transcend the traditional game of chess.
These expensive chess sets are fun to play with, in addition to being timeless works of art that celebrate the beauty and complexity of chess. As a chess lover and collector, why not get a high-quality chess set like these modern chess sets as an heirloom for your children?
Our friendly team here at Chess House is always ready to help you find the ideal chess set for your needs. Chat with our highly experienced and friendly team of chess experts for more information about getting handcrafted custom chess pieces today.