13 High-End Horse Breeds That Break the Bank—One Even Turned Down a $20 Million Offer

When it comes to the equestrian world, some horses command jaw-dropping prices. But what exactly makes certain breeds so valuable? 

To answer that question, here’s a quick look at 13 of the most expensive horse breeds that are sure to make your eyes water and your wallet cringe.

1. Thoroughbred

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Thoroughbreds are the superstar athletes of the horse world. Bred for speed and stamina, these magnificent creatures routinely sell for millions at auction, especially if they have a winning racing pedigree.

In 2006, a Thoroughbred named The Green Monkey sold for a record $16 million as a two-year-old.(ref)

2. Arabian

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Arabians are one of the oldest and most recognizable horse breeds, known for their distinctive head shape and high tail carriage. Their endurance and intelligence make them highly prized.

Top Arabian horses can sell for millions, with one named Marwan Al Shaqab receiving a $20 million offer.(ref)

3. Dutch Warmblood

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The Dutch Warmblood is a popular sport horse originating from the Netherlands. With their athletic ability and willing temperament, they excel in dressage, show jumping, and eventing.

Top Dutch Warmbloods can easily sell for six figures, with one named Totilas sold for around $15 million in 2010.

4. Friesian

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Known for their striking black coats and flowing manes, Friesians originated in the Netherlands as carriage horses.

Today, their beauty and powerful movement make them sought-after in the dressage arena and as flashy driving horses. Well-trained Friesian stallions can command prices upwards of $100,000.

5. Oldenburg

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The Oldenburg is a German warmblood breed that consistently produces top-level sport horses.

With their athleticism and trainability, Oldenburgs are a favorite choice for competitive riders. In 2018, an Oldenburg sold for about $230,000 at the Oldenburg Horse Center.

6. Selle Français

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This French sport horse breed is renowned for its scope and carefulness over fences, making them exceptional show jumpers.

Selle Français horses with proven competition results can fetch high six-figure sums, with the most expensive one, Palloubet d’Halong, sold for $15 million in 2013.(ref)

7. Hanoverian

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The Hanoverian is another German warmblood breed that dominates in the Olympic disciplines. These elegant and powerful horses are favored by many top riders. Quality Hanoverians can easily sell for several hundred thousand dollars.

8. Holsteiner

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Holsteiners are an historic German breed dating back to the 13th century. Known for their jumping prowess, Holsteiners have been instrumental in developing other warmblood breeds. Superior Holsteiner bloodlines are highly valuable.

9. Andalusian

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The Andalusian is a baroque horse breed from Spain, prized for its elevated movement and noble appearance. Andalusians are popular in classical dressage and as parade mounts. Well-bred Andalusian stallions can cost in the range of $3,000 to $60,000.

10. Lusitano

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The Lusitano is a Portuguese horse breed known for its agility and courageous temperament. Historically used for mounted bullfighting, today Lusitanos excel in dressage and working equitation. Well-trained Lusitano horses can cost upwards of $17,500.

11. Gypsy Vanner

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Gypsy Vanners are a colorful breed developed by the Romani people of Great Britain. With their abundant feathering and stocky build, these small but sturdy horses turn heads. Well-trained Gypsy Vanners can sell in the range of $10,000 to $25,000.

12. Westphalian

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The Westphalian is yet another German warmblood breed that excels in dressage and show jumping. These powerful and modern sport horses are a popular choice in the equestrian world, with top individuals commanding hefty price tags.

13. Trakehner

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The Trakehner is a German warmblood breed with a tragic history, having narrowly escaped extinction during World War II. Athletic, intelligent, and sensitive, Trakehners make superior sport horses. Prime Trakehner mares and stallions ready for the racetrack can cost $300,000 or more.

davin
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.