Updated May 2025
Founded in 1993, Rock Island Auction Company quickly climbed to the top of the firearms auction industry and has remained the undisputed leader in the field since 2003. RIAC offers collectible firearms at every level of the calling, including some of the most prominent pieces ever offered to the collectible public. At the time of writing, Rock Island Auction Company has sold 58 percent of all seven-figure guns ever auctioned, including 5 of the top 10 most expensive guns ever sold publicly.
If a gun has made it on to the list of most expensive guns sold by Rock Island Auction Company, it most likely possesses a multitude of desirable traits that send collectors clamoring. They may be beautiful, rare, historically significant, belonged to someone famous, or they may be an unusual version of a very popular and beloved gun. Nearly all are so incredibly well-preserved that their condition defies belief. One thing they undoubtedly share, is a unique story: how it began, how it became extraordinary, and how that exceptional nature resulted in an enviable price point at auction.
15. King Louis XIII of France Wheellock Gun: $881,250 (August 2024)
“When someone pays 300,000 dollars for a firearm, its history,” noted collector Frank E. Bivens Jr. remarked in 1973 after an ornate flintlock from the collection of King Louis XIII of France went up for auction. Half a century later, another pinnacle piece from King Louis XIII’s Cabinet d’Armes set a new world record for a wheellock firearm when it realized $881,250 in our August 2024 Premier Auction.
One of the earliest inclusions in the French monarch’s renowned collection, King Louis XIII’s ornamented wheellock is a historic cornerstone of European artistry. The French king is generally recognized as Europe’s first real arms collector, so much so he was nicknamed “Louis l’Arquebusier.” He studied, disassembled, cleaned, and reassembled his firearms in his leisure time, and enjoyed hunting and target shooting.
Anticipation surrounding the sale came from all corners of the collecting sphere, and over four hundred years after it was first received by King Louis XIII, this gold and silver ornamented masterpiece of early 17th century artistry found a new home.
14. Documented Colonel Theodore Roosevelt Smith & Wesson No. 3 (December 2022): $910,625
Theodore Roosevelt’s Smith & Wesson revolver has everything going for it: condition, rarity, beauty, and historic provenance to one of the giants in American history. What more could a gun collector want?
An absolute national treasure, Theodore Roosevelt’s engraved Smith and Wesson New Model No. 3 revolver ranks high on the pantheon of fine and historic firearms. The 26th President of the United States was most known for sporting arms, so this revolver, intended to serve as Roosevelt’s military sidearm, is particularly notable and stands as the very definition of a legacy gun.
In a factory letter, Roosevelt’s remarkable revolver is confirmed by serial number as shipped to “Colonel Roosevelt” on May 12, 1898, the same day Roosevelt left for San Antonio to train the Rough Riders. In addition to the gun’s outstanding provenance, Theodore Roosevelt’s stunning Smith and Wesson New Model No. 3 features incredible engraving and includes an immensely scarce chambering for the model: .38 Long Colt. This was the U.S. service cartridge at the time, and Roosevelt’s revolver is one of a scant few New Model No. 3s known in this configuration. In short, all the right qualities to earn this remarkable revolver a spot on our list of most expensive guns ever sold.
13. Ultra-Rare Deluxe Winchester “One of One Thousand” Deluxe Model 1876: $891,250 (September 2018)
The “One of One Thousand” rifles of the Model 1873 Winchester are a rare prize indeed, but those specially treated Model 1876 examples are scarcer still – only 136 of the former and a scant 54 of the latter were ever produced. Of those manufactured, only 40 Model 1873 versions are thought to exist and TEN Model 1876 versions are still known to collectors. That sort of rarity among old guns drives value as clearly shown here.
This is an exceptional, totally original example of a documented Winchester One of One Thousand Model 1876 “Centennial Rifle” with Cody Firearms Museum letter. Combined with the fine condition, limited wear, and hailing from the vaunted collection of Robert M. Lee, this rifle brought an appropriately handsome price at auction.
12. L.D. Nimschke Engraved Silver Winchester Model 1866, $977,500 (December 2021)
The immense artistry of engraver Louis D. Nimschke is fully on display in this silver-framed tour-de-force offering that also bears the historic weight of being presented by one South American head of state to another. A single glance at this masterpiece establishes why this Winchester 1866 is one of the most expensive gun lots ever offered anywhere.
This may be the German-American engraver’s masterpiece if not the most extravagant Winchester ever created. It features six solid silver bands, solid silver mounts, cast solid silver frame, carrier block, butt-plate, end cap, and lever.
The gun was made as a presentation from the president of Peru, Jose Balta, to the president of Bolivia, Mariano Melgarejo. The silver involved in this piece is believed to have been supplied to Winchester from Peruvian silver mines. A spectacular rifle, and a firearm more than worthy of its auction price.
11. The Last Colt Walker: E Company, 120: $1,035,000 (September 2019)
Another most expensive gun with strong historic ties, the Colt Walker has long been the single most essential and necessary piece for many, if not all, of the iconic, important and influential 19th Century fine American arms collections over the last century. The Colt Walker represents so much more than just the combination of wood and metal. Colt Walkers are a tangible piece of the American spirit at such a pivotal time in our illustrious history.
They exhibit grit, vision, conquest, expansion and success. The literal embodiment of manifest destiny. They represent the birth of an empire, the awakening of American manufacturing might, the American West and the first American industrial tycoon: Col. Samuel Colt.
Simply put, Colt Walker E Company, 120 is the final military contract Colt Walker ever produced, but the story of this Walker is not so simple. It has a rich history in the place of Colt firearms, an immaculately documented provenance, and a condition that ranks it as one of the finest examples in the world and one of the most expensive guns to ever sell.
10. Han Solo’s BlasTech DL-44 Heavy Blaster from “Star Wars: A New Hope”, $1,057,500 (August 2022)
The archetype BlasTech DL-44 Heavy Blaster wielded by Han Solo against the Empire in “Star Wars: A New Hope,” as recognizable a part of the film franchise as a lightsaber or TIE fighter, arrived from a galaxy far, far away to headline Rock Island Auction Company’s August 2022 Premier Firearms Auction.
Star Wars fans refer to Han Solo’s blaster, one of the most recognizable weapons in movie history, as the “Hero” prop from “A New Hope.” Roger Christian, set decorator for “A New Hope,” told Esquire magazine that he wanted Han Solo’s blaster to look like a western gun so the Mauser C96 broomhandle pistol that served as the base was modified with a World War II era scope and the muzzle from an airplane-mounted machine gun.
All three of the Han Solo DL-44 blasters created for the original “Star Wars” were previously considered missing and presumed lost forever, requiring new prop blasters to be built for “The Empire Strikes Back” and “Return of the Jedi.” The sole surviving example of the original three used for filming led to a surge of worldwide interest and became one of Rock Island Auction’s most expensive guns to cross the podium.
9. Alexander Hamilton’s Flintlock Holster Pistols and Epaulettes, $1,150,000 (May 2021)
Only two founders, George Washington and Alexander Hamilton served in the Continental Army with distinction. Thus, few firearms owned and used by founding fathers during the American Revolutionary War survive, and none are known, other than this pair, to remain in private hands. It’s no surprise they earned a spot on this most expensive gun list.
Alexander Hamilton, who graces the $10 bill, was a Founding Father, revolutionary war patriot, and first United States Secretary of the Treasury. His story became a Broadway phenomenon and renewed interest in this key figure in the nascent history of the United States. Hamilton’s pistols are in fine condition and fully functional.
Icons of the new republic and tools of the revolution likely used at the Battle of Yorktown, these impeccably documented pair of flintlock holster pistols have light scroll engraving and are inscribed “AH.” These sidearms were presented to Hamilton by General Philip Schuyler, his father-in-law, and rank high on the list of elite firearms sold by Rock Island Auction Company.
8. The Finest Known Winchester Model 1886: $1,178,750 (September 2018)
The finest known Winchester Model 1886 deserves a top spot on any countdown of most expensive guns. When you want the best, you have to pay for the best. Not only in immaculate condition, this rifle also displays the absolute peak of 19th and 20th-century factory craftsmanship, never again to be duplicated.
This masterpiece Model 1886 bears a grocery list of popular features that collectors love, such as a takedown model and being chambered in .50 Express. It came courtesy of the well-known Mac McCroskie Collection, a grouping well-known for containing fine arms in only the highest condition.
The engraving, executed and signed by master engraver John Ulrich, features highly detailed, gold inlaid animal scenes that depict a crouching cougar and grazing deer on the right side of the receiver, a vignette of a grizzly bear and two hounds on the left side of the receiver and a moose head vignette on the underside. Collectors weren’t surprised by the rare rifle’s reception on the podium, and in the end it surpassed all expectations and carved a definitive place for itself on the pantheon of most expensive guns of all time.
7. Winchester Model 1886, Serial number 1, with ties to Apache Leader Geronimo: $1,265,000 (May 2016)
This 1886 Winchester set what was at that time the world record for the most expensive single gun ever sold at auction, so it’s no surprise that it earns a spot on this list. Any Winchester in this high of original condition is quite valuable, but this particular model 1886 happened to be serial number one! If that weren’t enough, the gun was presented by firearms designer Lieut. George E. Albee to his friend and fellow Medal of Honor Recipient Capt. Henry W. Lawton, upon Lawton’s accepted surrender of Apache leader Geronimo.
This combination of Winchester Model 1886 (serial number 1) presented to the officer credited with the surrender of Geronimo and the very high quality watch and chain presented to Capt. Lawton by New Mexico cattlemen is one of the most important and historic firearms groups ever offered by the Rock island Auction Company.
General Henry W. Lawton’s career involved distinguished combat service in the Civil War, Indian Wars, Spanish American War and Philippine Insurrection. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for gallantry in action during the Civil War, ended the Apache Wars, and was killed in action leading troops in the Philippines. ANY firearm associated with Lawton would be a rare and historic piece. This first production Winchester Model 1886 rifle with factory presentation to Henry W. Lawton from a fellow soldier following the surrender of Geronimo combined with a presentation watch and chain for the same action is a one-of-kind group.
It was a humbling and exciting experience to be entrusted with this gun, to educate the collector community about it, and finally to place it with a steward who will keep it in just as pristine condition as it has been the last 130 years. If you haven’t read both parts of the remarkable story behind this old gun, you may do so at RIAC’s blog.
6. Colt Single Action Army Revolver Ordered for U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt: $1,466,250 (December 2020)
No most expensive gun list is complete without a connection to historical icons, and Teddy Roosevelt ranks high on the list of American legends. Ordered shortly before his 54th birthday, this revolver is not only extremely beautiful but carries serious historical significance with it. It was said that after an attempted assassination on his life failed only four days prior to ordering this gun, Roosevelt never left home unarmed again.
Unlike many of the other famous firearms owned by Roosevelt that have been institutionalized (such as his Holland & Holland Double Rifle “Big Stick” now on display at the Smithsonian), this Colt Single Action Army revolver is a recent discovery and is perhaps the most highly embellished firearm owned by the 26th President still in circulation. Its significance is further amplified by the impeccable documentation placing this specific revolver in the hands of Theodore Roosevelt late in his 1912 presidential campaign for the “Bull Moose” Party.
The revolver features beautiful engravings by Colt Master Engraver, Cuno Helfricht. Mainly consisting of classic scroll patterns backed by punch-dots, as well as some entwining lines, checkered patterns, and floral accents, it is incredibly difficult to spot even one small portion of the revolver that isn’t magnificently covered.
Chambered in .38 Long and featuring carved steer head grips, Colt seems to be boasting its ability to walk a tight rope between brute strength and refined beauty. While a Colt medallion immediately catches the eye, it is the contrast between silver and ivory tones on the gun that captivates the viewer’s attention. Estimated at $350,000-$550,000, Theodore Roosevelt’s revolver blew past this evaluation and sold for a whopping $1,466,250.
5. The Black Beauty Colt Single Action Army: $1,645,000 (May 2025)
The Black Beauty Colt Single Action Army revolver is a tour-de-force of Louis D. Nimschke’s immense talent and perhaps the most extravagant 19th century Colt SAA ever created. An exhibition of 19th century engraving at its highest level, this masterpiece includes the most gold Nimscke ever imbued onto a single piece.
In an included letter, R.L. Wilson notes, “Having studied the creative craftsmanship of L.D. Nimschke for over 40 years, the author has been aware since first studying the scrapbook that this artisan did not often employ gold inlay in his embellishments. Hardly any gold inlaid pieces appear in the scrapbook, and only a handful of guns so decorated by him have ever been found.”
Nimschke engraved The Black Beauty revolver for Jose Manuel del Refugio Gonzalez Flores, 35th President of Mexico, with the top of the back strap featuring a gold inlaid “MG” monogram. The magnificent Colt revolver remained in Mexico for decades until being acquired by Enrique E. Guerra of Texas, a friend of Manuel Gonzalez’s descendants.
The Black Beauty revolver changed hands numerous times until being sold to famed Colt collectors Brig and Louise Pemberton, where it has remained until May 2025, when it realized $1.645 million at Rock Island Auction Company and became one of the most expensive guns of all time.
4. The Millikin Dragoon: $1,667,500 (May 2019)
The Millikin Dragoon is a virtual superstar, and is among those few elite antique firearms recognized by the collector fraternity with a nickname. In the words of noted Colt historian R.L. Wilson, is “one of the classics of Colt collecting.”
The Millikin Dragoon is a type of revolver with an unprecedented level of historical pedigree, ownership pedigree, artistic merit and condition that collectors usually can only fantasize about owning. A one gun tour de force that transcends fine arms collecting in way that it has the ability to instantaneously reveals itself as fine art, a steel canvas by definition.
An extraordinary cased Colt Third Model Dragoon, the Millikin Dragoon is a perfect storm of immaculate condition, Gustave Young’s master engraving, remarkable Civil War history, and a provenance that is above reproach. Even before it crossed the auction podium, we could safely state that it was one of the finest pieces we had ever had the privilege to share with the world. It’s incredible and justified price merely confirmed the fact.
The most expensive gun sold by Rock Island Auction Company in 2019, the Millikin Dragoon brought in a jaw-dropping $1,667,500.
3. The “Danish Sea Captain” Civilian Colt Walker: $1,840,000 (April 2018)
The Colt Walkers have long been the single most essential and necessary piece for many–if not all–of the iconic, important, and influential arms collections of the last century. Their appeal is, of course, for good reason. They transcend percussion Colt collecting, American arms collecting, and military arms collecting.
This is the finest known Civilian Walker and only known cased original Walker that includes an original bill of sale from Samuel Colt himself. Traveling across the Atlantic with one of its owners to take up roots in Denmark, it stayed there for about one hundred years, avoiding the ravages of time and even the Nazis. A supremely rare old gun with excellent documentation and pedigree, it is no surprise that it comes from the Robert M. Lee Collection.
This astonishing Walker revolver sold for $1,840,000 in April of 2018, holding the record for the most expensive gun sold until it was surpassed in August 2021.
2. Napoleon Presentation Garniture of Six Arms from Boutet $2,875,000 (December 2021)
Napoleon Bonaparte is an extraordinary historical figure and this exquisitely-crafted set of gold-encrusted weapons is worthy of someone who shaped modern Europe. A rising star of the French Revolution when the leaders of the Republic gifted it to him in 1797, Napoleon was lavished with this garniture that includes a rifled carbine, a pair of rifled carriage pistols, a pair of pocket pistols, and a “glaive” sword and scabbard. He would overthrow the Republic two years later, wearing the sword on his hip as he did.
The set is among the most significant set of arms from the French Revolutionary Wars and Napoleonic Wars in private hands. The arms, covered with amazing engraving and embellished with Greco-Roman symbolism and other scenes, came from the renowned Versailles Manufactory led by Nicolas-Noel Boutet. Boutet remains one of the most renowned European arms makers in history.
Napoleon gave the set to Marshall Junot, Duke of Abrantes, with whom it remained till his death. The Duchess of Abrantes, with her extravagant lifestyle and denied a pension by Napoleon after his return from Elba, sold several scarce and precious items, including the garniture. The set was purchased by an officer serving under Napoleon. Following the Battle of Waterloo and the final defeat of Napoleon, the weapons set went on display in London in 1816 and set the clear provenance to Napoleon.
Before being displayed, the weapons were sent to Boutet, whose name is engraved on every article, to be cleaned, reconfirming him as the manufacturer. At the time of its sale for $2,875,000 in December 2021, this six piece garniture became the new top-selling item for Rock Island Auction Company and the second most expensive assemblage of guns ever sold at auction.
1. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant’s Cased Remington New Model Army Revolvers $5.17 million (May 2022)
Ulysses S. Grant’s New Model Army Remington revolvers, presented to the Civil War general and eventual President of the United States, are an American treasure in the same lofty echelon as President Abraham Lincoln’s engraved Henry Rifle or President George Washington’s flintlock pistols. They were likely presented to Grant after he captured Vicksburg on the Fourth of July in 1863 and thus secured the length of the Mississippi River for the Union.
The most expensive gun lot auctioned in 2022 to date, Grant’s Remingtons, numbered 1 and 2 are arguably the most significant firearms discovered from the Civil War. The exquisite revolvers had remained hidden from the modern world until their 2018 unveiling at the Las Vegas Antique Arms Show. Currently, these firearms constitute the most elaborate and historically significant known set of revolvers manufactured during the Civil War.
“Items owned by Grant are among the most desirable 19th century American artifacts, particularly artifacts presented to, owned by, or used by General Grant during the Civil War,” said Kevin Hogan, President of Rock Island Auction Company. “They’re significant works of American art, a powerful piece of American history, and completely fresh to market. It’s an incredibly exciting time to be a fine arms collector.”
This historic set is covered with the artistry of L. D. Nimschke, one of the most renowned master engravers of the 19th century, and features grips carved with Grant’s portrait. When it comes to condition, rarity, and immense historical significance, Grant’s Remington revolvers represent the highest level of the fine arms collecting pursuit, and found a price worthy of their lofty stature with the number one firearms auction house in the world, Rock Island Auction Company.
Most Expensive Gun
Though the arms collecting market has been building momentum for many years, its recent growth has been unparalleled. Thanks to the global reach offered by digital bidding platforms, the greater availability of prestigious arms collections, and a burgeoning contingent of buyers seeking portfolio diversification, the six and seven-figure firearm has gone from rare outlier to a status enjoyed by an ever-expanding pantheon of top-tier investment pieces.
As always, if there are any questions regarding consignment, future auctions, or registration, please contact Rock Island Auction Company. Expectations will always be set higher, so make sure to check back here after every auction for updates to this list. Keep an eye out for more information on 2023’s exciting slate of auction events and subscribe to the weekly Rock Island Auction newsletter to receive new gun blogs and gun videos on the finest firearms in the industry.
