The sword of Tipu Sultan, an Indian leader who lived in the 1700s, was auctioned for an incredible $17.5 million, making it the most expensive sword in history. Expected to find a buyer for only around $2.5 million, the sword exceeded this expectation, breaking not only a sword record, but also the record for the highest priced Islamic artifact sold.
This expensive sword, which belongs to the legendary Tipu Sultan, was used by him as a bedroom weapon during his reign between 1782-1799. The sword is an extraordinary craftsmanship, making it harder than other types of steel because it is made of Wootz steel.
The swords belonging to this period in Indian history, according to the rumor, easily cut the armor and stand out from the metallurgy of that period. The gold hilt is covered with intricate markings, and the inscriptions on the blade, along with other posthumous inscriptions, give it the name “The Sword of the Sovereign”.
After Tipu Sultan was defeated by Britain, the sword was taken from his bedroom by British soldiers in 1799 and given to General David Baird. This sword was presented as a token of his appreciation for the general’s bravery and the assassination of Tipu Sultan in the attack he commanded.
This sword is not Tipu Sultan’s only sword. It’s not even one of the swords he used in battle. The ones they used in war have been kept in British museums ever since.
Tipu Sultan is also considered the pioneer of rocket artillery. Because he used metal tubes filled with gunpowder as a long-range artillery weapon against British attacks. This was an example well ahead of its time. They were not overly effective or harmful, but the loud noises and bursts of bright light were enough to seriously frighten the British East India Company army.
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