Queen Nefertiti Bust Value Guide

This mid-century Egyptian souvenir bust captures the iconic likeness of Queen Nefertiti, the Great Royal Wife of Pharaoh Akhenaten. Carved from dark stone like basalt or soapstone between 1960 and 1980, these pieces remain popular collectibles for those fascinated by the Amarna Period and the 1912 discovery of the original limestone masterpiece.

What Is Queen Nefertiti Bust Worth?

The typical price range for Queen Nefertiti Bust is $50 - $55 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Material quality, with heavy basalt carvings generally commanding higher prices than softer soapstone.
• The presence of original labels or 'Made in Egypt' stamps from the 1960-1980 era.
• Overall condition, specifically looking for chips on the crown's edge or the delicate nose profile.
• The level of detail in the facial features and the symmetry of the iconic tall crown.

How to Identify Queen Nefertiti Bust?

• Look for the distinctive flat-topped crown (nemet) and elongated neck characteristic of the Amarna style.
• Inspect the material for the smooth, slightly waxy texture of soapstone or the heavy, matte finish of basalt.
• Check the base for 'Egypt' or 'U.A.R.' (United Arab Republic) markings common on mid-20th-century tourist exports.
• Verify the carving style, which should mimic the 14th-century BCE original discovered by Ludwig Borchardt.

History of Queen Nefertiti Bust

Queen Nefertiti was the Great Royal Wife of Pharaoh Akhenaten during the 14th century BCE. She is one of the most famous women of the ancient world, known for her role in the religious revolution toward Atenism. This specific piece is a mid-century souvenir or decorative replica, likely carved from soapstone or basalt, modeled after the original polychrome limestone bust discovered by Ludwig Borchardt in 1912.