While they were once objects of significant practical use for world travelers, antique maps are also amazing works of art. Many of the world's rarest and most beautiful maps have been valued very highly at auction, demonstrating the allure of having one of these lovely pieces of history. Here are three examples of historical maps and the incredible amounts they sold for.

Which Antique Maps Were Most Valuable When Sold at Auction?

1. A New and Correct Map of the United States of North America

With the lengthy title A New and Correct Map of the United States of North America Layd Down from the Latest Observations and the Best Authorities Agreeable to the Peace of 1783, this map is the first of its kind to depict the U.S. while also being published in America. Created by Abel Buell, this selection is valuable due to both its rarity—only eight originals are believed to exist—and the historical period during which it was created. As a result, A New and Correct Map of the United States of North America sold for $2,098,500 at Christie’s New York in 2010.

2. 1507 Waldseemüller Map of the World

Created by German cartographer Martin Waldseemüller, the 1507 Waldseemüller Map of the World is famous for accomplishing many firsts. This map was the first to depict the earth as a printed globe. It was also the first to depict the Pacific Ocean, show North and South America as a separate continent from the rest of the world, and use the name "America." These interesting characteristics and the fact that it may be the only one of the original 1,000 copies still in existence led to the map being sold at Christie's for $1,002,267. 

3. Atlas Maior

The sheer craftsmanship and artistry that went into Dutch cartographer Joan Blaeu's Atlas Maior is truly impressive. The atlas consists of eleven volumes containing 590 maps and over 3,000 pages, all of which were colored and written by hand. When the atlas was put up for auction in 2018 by Arenberg Auctions, its estimated value ranged between $274,512 and $384,318. The atlas actually sold for $658,830 and was purchased by a private buyer.

If you enjoy the appearance of antique maps in your home, you'll be delighted by the genuine yet affordable selection found at Queen Street Gallery in Martinsburg, WV. Located in the historic district of downtown since 1997, this art gallery features a variety of rare prints, posters, sculptures, textiles, and much more. They also offer framing services, so your new map or print can be displayed safely and beautifully. Start shopping today by visiting the website, or call (304) 263-9495 for more information. They ship pieces to anywhere in the U.S.