A remarkable artifact has emerged from recent auctions—a 200-year-old condom that has been recognized as the world’s most expensive, fetching an astonishing £460 (approximately USD508).
This unique piece sheds light on the evolution of contraception throughout history.
Found in France, this ancient c0nd0m measures 19 cm (7 inches) and was crafted from sheep intestine, distinguishing it from modern latex versions. Unlike contemporary contraceptives, c0nd0ms in the 18th and 19th centuries were made from animal intestines, including those of sheep, pigs, calves, and goats.
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The meticulous crafting process rendered these rudimentary forms of birth control luxury items, primarily affordable to the wealthy.
As cheaper rubber c0nd0ms became widely available in the 19th century, the use of animal-based contraception declined significantly. The auction drew notable interest from various museums eager to display this unique relic, emphasizing its historical significance.
Catawiki, the auction platform that facilitated the sale, remarked, “This ancient c0nd0m, made from sheep gut, is a remarkable artifact. It sheds light on the evolution of contraception and our history.” The winning bid was placed by an anonymous buyer in Amsterdam, highlighting the enduring intrigue held by such historical items.
