Rating and value of 16th-century European armor

If you own a suit of armor from the 16th century, and would like to know its value, our state-approved experts and auctioneers will offer you their appraisal services. Our specialists will carry out a free appraisal of your property, and provide you with a precise estimate of its current market value. Then, if you wish to sell your piece, we'll direct you to the best possible device to obtain the optimum price. The price of armor can vary according to the period, the person to whom it belonged, and its state of preservation.

Rating and value of European armor  

European suits of armor are highly prized historical objects, and very popular at auction. They are collected by buyers of all nationalities, although Europeans are the first to seek out this type of historical souvenir. The price at which they sell on the art and auction markets ranges from €30 to €5,100, a considerable difference but one that speaks volumes about the value that can be attributed to European armor. In 2018, a piece of chain mail and metal armor, with a helmet and cuirass, made of sculpted steel and decorated with flower scrolls sold for €5,100, a sale made in Paris.

Order of value from classic armor to the most sought-after

European armor, introduction and definition

In every country in the world, wars have forced civilizations to equip themselves with weapons and armor. In the West, armor was excessively heavy, particularly in the 16th century. Their natural purpose was to protect the wearer's body; they were defensive equipment worn directly on the body. They are world-famous for their unrivalled decorations. Here's a closer look at these collector's items.

History and composition of European armor   

Sixteenth-century European armor was a functional work of art, meticulously designed to offer optimal protection while displaying the wearer's wealth and social status. Primarily made from iron and steel, these armors were composed of multiple interconnected metal plates, offering considerable flexibility and mobility despite their weight. The manufacturing process involved forging and tempering to enhance the strength of the steel, while decoration, such as engraving and gilding, added an aesthetic dimension. Armor from this period varied in style, from the imposing Gothic armor with its angular forms to the more elegant Italian armor, characterized by its curves and intricate details. These pieces of armor were not only symbols of power and prestige, but also crucial elements of personal protection for the knights and nobles of the time.

Some of these suits of armor have become world-famous historical items, such as François I's armor with lions, meticulously decorated with acid, or the armor of the dauphin Henri II, which features steel engravings all over the armor.

Have your armour appraised

European armor is a complex collector's item, whose value and period are difficult to estimate. That's why it's vital to have your armor appraised by experts who can accurately date the period in which it was made and used.

Know the value of your property 

If you happen to own a European suit of armor, or think you might, don't hesitate to request a free appraisal using the form on our website. A member of our team of experts and certified auctioneers will contact you promptly to provide you with an estimate of the market value of your bag, as well as any relevant information about it. If you wish to sell your property, our specialists will also be on hand to help you find alternatives for selling it at the best possible price, taking into account market trends.