The Most Expensive NFTs Ever Sold
The Most Expensive NFTs Ever Sold
Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have taken the art, gaming, and entertainment industries by storm, leading to staggering sales that defy traditional valuation methods. Here, we explore some of the most expensive NFTs ever sold, showcasing the innovative spirit of digital ownership.
1. Everydays: The First 5000 Days - $69.3 Million
Created by digital artist Beeple (Mike Winkelmann), “Everydays: The First 5000 Days” made headlines when it sold for a jaw-dropping $69.3 million at Christie’s auction in March 2021. This piece is a collage of 5,000 daily artworks that Beeple created over 13 years, demonstrating not just artistic evolution but the potential of digital art.
2. CryptoPunk #7804 - $7.6 Million
CryptoPunks are one of the earliest and most iconic NFTs created by Larva Labs. CryptoPunk #7804, an alien with sunglasses and a pipe, sold for $7.6 million in March 2021. The rarity and unique characteristics of CryptoPunks have made them highly sought after, leading to substantial sales in the NFT marketplace.
3. CryptoPunk #3100 - $7.6 Million
Closely following CryptoPunk #7804, CryptoPunk #3100 also sold for $7.6 million. This specific punk is another alien variant, further underlining the value placed on rare CryptoPunk artworks. Collectors consider owning a Punk not only a status symbol but also a sound investment.
4. Crossroads - $6.6 Million
“Crossroads” by Beeple earned $6.6 million after an auction held in February 2021. This NFT depicted an animated artwork that responded to the outcome of the 2020 U.S. presidential election, showcasing both political commentary and the creative possibilities within the NFT space.
5. The First Tweet - $2.9 Million
Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey sold his first-ever tweet as an NFT for $2.9 million in March 2021. The tweet, which reads “just setting up my twttr,” exemplifies how digital memorabilia can acquire significant value as collectors seek unique pieces of internet history.
6. Ringers #109 - $2.7 Million
“Ringers” is part of a series created by artist Dmitri Cherniak. Ringers #109 was sold for $2.7 million in April 2021, reflecting the desire for algorithmically generated art in the NFT market. The uniqueness of each piece ensures that collectors find value in the complexity of creation.
7. The Merge - $91.8 Million (Total Sales)
Beeple's “The Merge” consists of several mass editions sold to over 28,000 collectors, resulting in total sales reaching an astonishing $91.8 million in December 2021. This NFT allows collectors to own a part of the overall creation, echoing the community-driven approach of the NFT space.
8. Forever Rose - $2 Million
“Forever Rose” by Kevin Abosch is a digital artwork symbolizing the relationship between technology and nature. Sold for $2 million in 2018, this NFT paved the way for artists to enter the digital collectible space and demonstrated the potential for collaboration between physical and digital realms.
Conclusion
The world of NFTs has introduced a new frontier in art collection and ownership. As these digital assets continue to evolve, the prices at which they are sold reflect not just monetary value but also a cultural shift towards recognizing digital art as a legitimate form of creative expression. Who knows what the future of NFTs holds as artists and collectors continue to push boundaries.