Ancient Egyptian Scarab Value Guide

This Ancient Egyptian scarab, dating from the New Kingdom (1550-1070 BCE), is a significant collectible carved from steatite to represent the sacred dung beetle. Associated with the sun god Khepri, these amulets served as both protective charms and impression seals featuring unique hieroglyphic inscriptions.

What Is Ancient Egyptian Scarab Worth?

The typical price range for Ancient Egyptian Scarab is $350 - $400 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The clarity and historical significance of the hieroglyphic inscriptions on the base.
• The physical condition of the steatite, including the preservation of fine details and any remaining glaze.
• Provenance and authenticity documentation linking the piece to the New Kingdom era (1550-1070 BCE).
• The overall size and artistic quality of the beetle's anatomical carving.

How to Identify Ancient Egyptian Scarab?

• Look for the characteristic oval shape and detailed carving of the beetle's head, wings, and legs on the upper surface.
• Examine the base for authentic hieroglyphic inscriptions, which often include royal names, titles, or protective symbols.
• Verify the material as steatite (soapstone), which may show signs of original glazing or a weathered, matte finish.
• Check for a longitudinal piercing through the center, used for threading the scarab onto a ring or necklace.

History of Ancient Egyptian Scarab

Scarabs were popular amulets and impression seals in ancient Egypt. They were carved to resemble the dung beetle, an insect considered sacred due to its association with Khepri, the god of the rising sun, who rolled the sun across the sky each day. Scarabs were believed to offer protection and good fortune, often inscribed with hieroglyphs representing wishes, names, or royal titles.