Luxury Collectibles That the Ultra-Wealthy Splurge On

The New Status Symbols of the Ultra-Wealthy: A Look at Today’s Most Coveted Collectibles

In a world where wealth is often measured by the rare and extraordinary, the ultra-rich are increasingly turning to unique collectibles as a means of both investment and self-expression. From dinosaur bones to royal jewels and ultra-rare Pokémon cards, the items that capture the attention of billionaires and multimillionaires are as diverse as they are extravagant. The 2025 Knight Frank Luxury Report provides a fascinating insight into this trend, revealing the collectibles that are currently in high demand among the world’s elite.

The Knight Frank Luxury Investment Index

The Knight Frank Luxury Investment Index (KFLII) tracks ten categories of collectibles, showcasing how these items have performed as investments over the past two decades. Remarkably, many of these collectibles have outperformed the S&P 500, making them attractive options for the wealthy looking to diversify their portfolios. However, the report also notes a muted market in 2024, with five categories experiencing price drops, including art, which saw a decline of over 18%. In contrast, certain collectibles, such as handbags, saw modest appreciation, with prices increasing by 2.8%.

Dinosaur Bones: The Ultimate Trophy

Among the most eye-catching collectibles are dinosaur bones, which have emerged as a trophy buy for billionaires. These ancient relics not only offer bragging rights but also represent a significant investment opportunity. A notable example is the sale of a 150-million-year-old stegosaurus named Apex, which fetched a staggering $44.6 million at Sotheby’s New York. The buyer, billionaire Ken Griffin, loaned the fossil to the American Museum of Natural History, further enhancing its prestige.

Royal Jewels: A Touch of History

Fine jewelry has always been a staple of luxury, but for today’s wealthy collectors, the allure lies in pieces with royal connections. A diamond necklace linked to Marie Antoinette recently sold for $4.8 million, while other royal jewels have also fetched impressive sums at auction. The historical significance and craftsmanship of these pieces make them highly desirable among collectors.

Classic Cars: The Rarer, the Better

For car enthusiasts, owning a classic vehicle is a mark of status. The 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder, of which only 56 were produced, recently sold for over $17 million, making it one of the most sought-after cars among the wealthy. Meanwhile, the Lamborghini Countach LP5000 QV, made famous by the television series "Miami Vice," has seen a 60% increase in value over the past five years, appealing to younger buyers looking for a piece of nostalgia.

Sports Memorabilia: Legends Live On

In the realm of sports collectibles, items associated with legends like Babe Ruth and Michael Jordan command astronomical prices. Ruth’s ‘call shot’ jersey sold for $24.1 million, setting a record for sports memorabilia. Similarly, a collection of Air Jordans worn during championship games sold for $8 million, highlighting the immense value placed on items tied to iconic athletes.

The Magic of Harry Potter

As the younger generation of ultra-wealthy collectors emerges, items from beloved franchises like Harry Potter are becoming increasingly valuable. The original watercolor cover art for "Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone" sold for $1.9 million, reflecting the cultural significance and nostalgia associated with the series.

Rare Maps and Pokémon Cards: Unconventional Investments

Interestingly, rare maps have gained traction among collectors, particularly in Silicon Valley, where tech entrepreneurs are driving up prices for antique cartography. A map created for a Chinese emperor in the early 1600s is now worth five times its original sale price. Meanwhile, the Pokémon card market has exploded, with a rare card selling for $5.3 million, showcasing the unexpected avenues of investment that appeal to the ultra-rich.

The Allure of Precious Gemstones

Gemstones remain a favorite among collectors, with Colombian emeralds and Burmese pigeon blood rubies leading the charge. A 37-carat Colombian emerald sold for $9 million, while the most exquisite rubies can fetch tens of millions. These gemstones are not only beautiful but also serve as a hedge against inflation, making them a wise investment choice.

The Pinnacle of Movie Memorabilia

Hollywood memorabilia, particularly iconic pieces like Dorothy’s ruby slippers from "The Wizard of Oz," have become highly sought after. One pair recently sold for $28 million, underscoring the immense value placed on items that hold cultural significance.

The Resilience of High-End Watches

High-end watches have appreciated significantly over the past decade, with some models, like the Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime, selling for record-breaking amounts. Collectors are drawn to the craftsmanship and exclusivity of these timepieces, making them a staple in luxury collections.

The Art Market: A Mixed Bag

While the overall art market faced challenges in 2024, certain segments, particularly surrealist and pop art, have thrived. Landmark sales, such as René Magritte’s "L’empire des lumières" for $121.2 million, demonstrate the enduring appeal of high-value artworks. Female surrealist artists are also gaining recognition, with record-breaking sales highlighting their growing prominence in the art world.

Conclusion: The Future of Collecting

As the landscape of luxury collectibles continues to evolve, the ultra-wealthy are increasingly drawn to unique items that offer both status and investment potential. From dinosaur bones to royal jewels and rare Pokémon cards, the collectibles market reflects not only the tastes of the rich but also their desire to make a statement. As we look to the future, it will be fascinating to see how these trends develop and what new collectibles will capture the imagination of the world’s elite.