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Napoleon’s Saber Sells for €4.66 Million in Paris Auction

The ornate weapon, crafted by Nicolas-Noël Boutet in 1802–03, becomes the second most valuable Napoleonic artifact ever sold.

Overview

  • The saber, auctioned by Giquello in Paris, fetched €4.66 million, nearly breaking the €4.8 million record for a Napoleonic artifact set in 2007.
  • Initially estimated at €700,000 to €1 million, the final sale price far exceeded expectations, reflecting strong demand for Napoleonic memorabilia.
  • Crafted by Nicolas-Noël Boutet in Versailles, the saber was gifted by Napoleon to Marshal Emmanuel de Grouchy and remained in his family for over two centuries.
  • A second identical saber resides in the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, highlighting the international dispersion of Napoleonic relics.
  • Attention now turns to Sotheby’s upcoming June auction, featuring additional Napoleon artifacts such as a field bed and coronation staff.