17 Most Expensive & Rarest CryptoPunks Ever Sold

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CryptoPunks have cemented their place as pioneers in the world of digital collectibles. As one of the first non-fungible token (NFT) projects on the Ethereum blockchain, these 10,000 unique pixel-art avatars have evolved from free giveaways into million-dollar assets. Created in 2017 by Canadian software developers Matt Hall and John Watkinson of Larva Labs, each CryptoPunk is algorithmically generated with varying traits that determine its rarity and market value.

The collection includes three ultra-rare categories: Aliens (only 9), Apes (24), and Zombies (88). The remaining punks are divided between male and female characters, each with a wide range of accessories such as hats, shades, beards, and earrings. Over time, certain combinations—especially those with multiple rare features—have commanded staggering prices at public sales and private auctions.

While this list was originally compiled based on Ether values from April 2021, the underlying trends still hold true: scarcity, provenance, and cultural significance continue to drive demand in the NFT space. Below is an updated look at some of the most valuable and rarest CryptoPunks ever sold.

The Rarity Hierarchy: What Makes a CryptoPunk Valuable?

Not all CryptoPunks are created equal. The value of a punk is determined by several key factors:

Understanding these elements helps explain why certain punks sell for millions while others remain relatively affordable.

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CryptoPunk #3443 – The Lost Alien

CryptoPunk #3443 stands out not for its sale price—but for its mysterious inactivity. Since being claimed in 2017, the wallet holding this Alien has shown no movement. Despite receiving multi-million-dollar bids, no transaction has occurred, suggesting the owner may have lost access to their wallet.

This scenario highlights a critical risk in digital ownership: without secure key management, even the rarest NFTs can become permanently inaccessible.

CryptoPunk #635 – Owned by the Creators

One of only nine Alien punks, #635 is part of the original 1,000 reserved by Larva Labs founders Matt Hall and John Watkinson. These developer-held punks carry immense historical weight. In May 2021, a curated lot including #635 was auctioned by Christie’s as part of their 21st Century Evening Sale.

Ownership by creators adds a layer of authenticity and narrative value that collectors highly prize.

CryptoPunk #5822 – Bandana-Wearing Alien

Originally sold for under $2,000, #5822's value surged over time. Though the bandana accessory isn't particularly rare (worn by 480 punks), its status as an Alien ensures premium valuation. A bid of 1,110 ETH (~$2M) was placed in February 2021 but later withdrawn.

This fluctuation underscores the speculative nature of NFT markets.

CryptoPunk #7532 – The Pandemic-Era Punk

With a medical mask—eerily prescient given global events—#7532 gained symbolic relevance. While it hasn’t seen major bids recently, its transfer activity suggests renewed interest. As one of only nine Aliens, any movement around this punk draws attention.

CryptoPunk #6089 & #5905 – Early Alien Sales

Both punks were sold in mid-2017 for around 10 ETH ($2,600). Neither has been relisted since, though #6089 received a withdrawn bid of 1,020 ETH (~$1.97M) in early 2021. Their minimal accessories reduce individual uniqueness, but their Alien classification maintains high floor value.

Zombie Punks: Rising Stars

While not as rare as Aliens or Apes, certain Zombie punks have broken records due to unique trait combinations.

CryptoPunk #2306

Third most valuable Zombie punk at the time of sale.

CryptoPunk #2484

Acquired earlier in 2021 for significantly less, showing strong ROI.

CryptoPunk #3393

Had never changed hands until March 2021.

Female Punks: Simplicity Equals Scarcity

Despite numbering over 3,800, female punks with no accessories are extremely rare.

CryptoPunk #6487

Only seven punks have zero accessories. This minimalist look became a premium feature.

Ape Punks: High Demand Collectibles

With just 24 in existence, Ape punks consistently fetch top prices.

CryptoPunk #4156

Once a record-breaker; owned by multiple collectors before selling in February 2021.

CryptoPunk #2140

Flipped within a week by collector Pranksy for substantial profit.

CryptoPunk #6965

Rarest Ape due to singular hat style; later listed for 2,100 ETH (~$5.5M).

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The Million-Dollar Milestones

CryptoPunk #2890

An early institutional acquisition signaling growing confidence in NFTs as assets.

CryptoPunk #3011

One of only 11 punks with six attributes—maximum trait density drives value.

The Crown Jewels: Alien Punks #7804 & #3100

CryptoPunk #7804

Owned by Figma CEO Dylan Field before selling in March 2021.

CryptoPunk #3100

Held the title of most expensive singular NFT at the time—beating even Beeple’s record-breaking Everydays sale when adjusted per-item value.

Owned by anonymous Twitter user “Peruggia,” this punk remains a symbol of NFT mania at its peak.

👉 See how digital ownership is redefining art and collectibles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are new CryptoPunks still being created?
A: No. Only 10,000 were ever minted in 2017, and no additional punks will be produced. This fixed supply contributes to their long-term value.

Q: Why are Alien CryptoPunks so expensive?
A: With only nine in existence—less than 0.1% of the total collection—they are the rarest type. Scarcity combined with historical significance drives extreme demand.

Q: Can I buy a CryptoPunk directly from Larva Labs?
A: No. All punks were distributed in 2017. Today, they trade exclusively on secondary markets like OpenSea or through private sales.

Q: What determines a CryptoPunk’s value?
A: Key factors include series type (Alien > Ape > Zombie > Male/Female), number of rare attributes, visual appeal, and ownership history.

Q: How do I verify a CryptoPunk’s authenticity?
A: All punks are recorded on the Ethereum blockchain. You can verify ownership and transaction history using tools like Etherscan or official platforms like Larva Labs’ site.

Q: Is now a good time to invest in CryptoPunks?
A: As with any collectible market, timing and research matter. While prices cooled post-2021 peak, foundational projects like CryptoPunks remain blue-chip assets in the NFT ecosystem.

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