9 grams of feather for 46,521 New Zealand dollars
The huia bird has disappeared but one of its feathers has been preserved and its buyer made a record by purchasing it. In fact, the pen sold for 46,521 New Zealand dollars or 28,365 US dollars. Which makes it by far the most expensive feather in the world ever sold at auction.
As a reminder, the huia nib was in excellent condition, it was preserved in archival paper and UV glass. As Leah Morris, head of decorative arts at Webb’s auction house, explains, it was auctioned at 3,000 New Zealand dollars. But the negotiations have only continued to climb, surpassing the record held in 2010 by an equivalent pen sold at $8,400.
Better yet, the most precious feather exceeds the price of gold. Indeed according to Gold Broker, the gram of gold is estimated at 127 dollars while the pen was sold at 5,169 dollars per gram.
Rarity makes value
Although some researchers believe it existed until 1920, the last time a huia was seen was in 1907. This bird endemic to New Zealand’s North Island is known for the beauty of its black feathers. , which end in white along its tail. Its disappearance only increases the interest of collectors. In 2023, a pair of plush huia once again reached a record price of 466,000 New Zealand dollars.
However, the new owner will not be able to travel with his new acquisition. In fact, the pen is registered as an authentic treasure with the Ministry of Culture and Heritage, which makes the transfer only possible to a collector but whose transaction is particularly protected.
A population linked to the symbols of huia
The Polynesian natives, the Maori, considered the bird sacred. They dedicated songs to it and referred to it in their expressions. Only important and prestigious personalities from these tribes had the honor of wearing the huia feathers.
