Rating and value of Maximilian armor

If you own a Maximilian suit of armor, 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 guide you towards the best possible device to obtain the optimum price. The price of armor can vary depending on the period, the person to whom it belonged, and its state of preservation.

Rating and value of Maximilian-style armor   

Maximilian-style armor is a valuable historical item, which is very successful 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 €100 to €70,000, a considerable difference but one that speaks volumes about the value that can be attributed to European armor. In 2011, a complete set of steel armor sold for €70,000, a sale made in Paris.

Order of value from classic to most sought-after armor

Maximilian-style 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 unparalleled decoration and distinctive shape. Here's a look back at these collector's items.

History and composition of Maximilian    

European armor of the 16th century was a functional work of art, meticulously designed to offer optimum protection while displaying the wealth and social status of its wearer. 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. 

Maximilian armor follows the stylistic and practical evolution of these suits of armor. It owes its name to the Austrian Emperor Maximilian I, a prominent member of the Habsburg dynasty. He was a great Renaissance patron who supported Albrecht Dürer, among others. Often away at war and close to the military developments of the time, he was a great supporter of the armory industry, especially in Innsbruck. In collaboration with these craftsmen, Maximilian armor was created in the early 16th century. It is defined by its rather curved forms, its sorlets (armor shoes) in bear paws and its fluting designed to imitate the folds of fabrics of the period. It is a particular type within the European armors of the 16th century. 

Have your armor appraised

Maxilian armors are complex collectibles, whose value and period are difficult to estimate. That's why it's vital to have your armor appraised by experts who can precisely date the period in which the armor was made and used.

Know the value of your property 

If you happen to own a Maximilian suit of armor, or think you might, don't hesitate to request a free appraisal using our 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, you will also be accompanied by our specialists in order to benefit from alternatives to sell it at the best possible price, taking into account market inclinations.