A gold-encrusted sword that Napoleon wore into battle 200 years ago was sold for $6.4 million:
The intricately decorated blade is 32 inches in length and curves gently -- an inspiration Napoleon drew from his Egyptian campaign, auctioneer Jean-Pierre Osenat said.
The sword was carried by Napoleon -- who was not yet emperor -- into the battle of Marengo in June 1800, when he launched a surprise attack to push the Austrian army from Italy and seal France's victory, auction house officials said.
After the battle, Napoleon gave the sword to his brother as a wedding present, and it was passed down through the generations, never leaving the family, according to the auction house.
http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/photo/2007-06/11/content_891591.htm - Thanks Freshome!
Uh-oh. Let the curse begin!
Amazing that significant artifacts seeped in history go for that sort of price, when other things like "Damien Hirst’s Diamond and Platinum Skull" go for 99 million. Hmm... Napoleon's sword, or a "disco ball" skill covered in diamonds...
Wish I had the money to be stuck with that sort of choice.