Tipu Sultan’s sword sold for a whopping Rs 140 crore at London auction

The sword of 18th century Mysuru ruler Tipu Sultan fetched a whopping price of 14 million pounds (Rs 140 crore)) at an auction held in London.

Auction house Bonhams, which organised the sale on Tuesday, said the price was seven times the expected estimate. Bonhams also said that the bedchamber sword was the most important of the weapons with proven personal association with the ruler. Tipu Sultan fought several wars against the Marathas and the British during the late 18th century.

“This spectacular sword is the greatest of all the weapons linked to Tipu Sultan still in private hands. Its close personal association with the Sultan, its impeccable provenance traceable to the very day it was captured, and the outstanding craftsmanship that went into its manufacture make it unique and highly desirable,” said Oliver White, Bonhams Head of Islamic and Indian Art and auctioneer.

The sword was found in the private quarters of Tipu Sultan’s palace.

After Tipu Sultan was killed, his sword was presented to British Major General David Baird as a token of his courage, according to the auction house.

“The sword has an extraordinary history, an astonishing provenance and unrivalled craftsmanship. It was no surprise it was so hotly contested between two phone bidders and a bidder in the room. We are delighted with the result,” Nima Sagharchi, group head of Islamic and Indian Art at Bonhams, said in a statement.