At a Sotheby’s auction, a rare Fabergé nephrite cigar lighter, designed in the shape of a hippopotamus, sold for an impressive $160,000. Originally part of the James R. and N. A. Patier collection, the piece dates back to 1908 and was once chosen by King Edward VII.
Bidding started at $70,000 and quickly escalated in $5,000 increments as intense competition unfolded. David Pollock emerged as a key bidder, going head-to-head with online participants in a heated auction battle.
After a spirited exchange, the rare Fabergé lighter reached its final price of $160,000, with the auctioneers expressing appreciation for the enthusiastic participation that made the event so thrilling.
Tags: Fabergé, Sotheby’s auction, rare collectibles, luxury cigar accessories, antique lighter, King Edward VII, nephrite, high-end auctions, cigar memorabilia, bidding war
