The World of High-Stakes Pigeon Racing has garnered significant attention and investment in recent years, with enthusiasts around the world willing to pay astonishing sums of money for top-performing birds.
With wealthy individuals, particularly from China, investing in the sport as a symbol of social status and lucrative prize money up for grabs, the value of racing pigeons has skyrocketed.
In this article, we will explore the top 10 most expensive racing pigeons ever sold, delving into their unique backgrounds and accomplishments that have earned them a place in the annals of pigeon racing history.
The top 10 most expensive racing pigeons
New Kim – $1.9 million (2020)
A Belgian racing pigeon, New Kim, set the world record after being sold for a staggering $1.9 million in an online auction in 2020. She was purchased by a wealthy Chinese industrialist known only as “Super Duper.”
Armando – $1.4 million (2019)
Previously holding the world record, Armando, a Belgian racing pigeon, was sold for $1.4 million in 2019 to a Chinese buyer. Armando was considered one of the best long-distance racing pigeons of all time.
Golden Prince – $536,000 (2017)
Golden Prince, another Belgian racing pigeon, was sold for $536,000 in 2017 to a Chinese buyer. This bird was known for its impressive racing pedigree, contributing to its high value.
Nadine – $450,000 (2020)
Nadine, a Belgian racing pigeon, was sold for $450,000 in 2020. Like the others on this list, the buyer was a Chinese enthusiast. Nadine’s impressive racing background made her a sought-after bird.
Bolt – $430,000 (2013)
Bolt, named after the famous sprinter Usain Bolt, was sold for $430,000 in 2013 to a Chinese businessman. The Belgian racing pigeon was highly regarded for its speed and racing abilities.
Euro Diamond – $225,000 (2011)
Euro Diamond, a German racing pigeon, was sold for $225,000 in 2011. The bird had an impressive racing history, winning several prestigious awards, including 1st International Pau, 1st National Carcassonne, and 1st National Bergerac.
Dolce Vita – $200,000 (2011)
Dolce Vita, a Dutch racing pigeon, fetched a price of $200,000 in 2011. She was known for her impressive racing results, including winning the title of Europe’s best long-distance racing pigeon in 2010.
Blue Prince – $200,000 (2011)
Blue Prince, another Belgian racing pigeon, was sold for $200,000 in 2011. This bird was known for its strong racing pedigree, contributing to its high value.
Son of Bolt – $170,000 (2013)
Son of Bolt, a descendant of the famous Bolt mentioned earlier, was sold for $170,000 in 2013. The pigeon’s strong genetic lineage, being an offspring of one of the fastest pigeons in the world, made it a sought-after bird for racing enthusiasts.
Safier – $150,000 (2011)
Safier, a Belgian racing pigeon, was sold for $150,000 in 2011. The bird had an impressive racing background, having won several races, making it a valuable acquisition for pigeon racers.
The Ever-Increasing Value of Racing Pigeons
The growing interest in and demand for top-performing racing pigeons has driven their prices to astonishing heights. As this list of the most expensive racing pigeons demonstrates, wealthy enthusiasts, particularly from China, are willing to invest considerable sums of money in the sport, seeking both social prestige and potential monetary rewards.
This trend has transformed pigeon racing into a lucrative industry, with breeders, trainers, and buyers alike vying for the best birds. With its centuries-old history and global appeal, pigeon racing continues to captivate the world, and the value of these prized birds shows no signs of slowing down.
