Rare Quran once in Akbar’s library sells for £863,600 in London

A rare Qur’an manuscript with a documented connection to Mughal emperor Akbar’s library has fetched £863,600 at a Sotheby’s auction in London, selling for more than 14 times its highest estimate after a 15-minute bidding battle. Dating to the late 16th century, the lavishly decorated manuscript carries traces of its passage through the Mughal royal collection, including library seals and inspection inscriptions that offer a glimpse into its history.The four-volume work was offered as the opening lot of Sotheby’s Arts of the Islamic World and India sale on October 29, 2025. As per Sotheby's post-sale report, it had been estimated at £40,000-£60,000, but the final price of £863,600, including the buyer’s premium, far exceeded expectations.