The cattle industry has witnessed remarkable sales, with elite cows fetching extraordinary prices due to their superior genetics, production capabilities, and show records. Here are ten of the most expensive cows ever sold, each exemplifying the pinnacle of bovine excellence.
1. Viatina-19 FIV Mara Movéis – $4 Million (Uberaba, Brazil)
Viatina-19 FIV Mara Movéis, a Nelore cow from Brazil, set a world record by selling for $4 million. Her exceptional muscle mass, rapid weight gain, and fertility have made her a prized asset in the cattle breeding industry. Constantly monitored by security and veterinarians, Viatina-19’s genetic material is highly sought after, with egg cells priced at around $250,000 each. Her sale underscores Brazil’s prominence in advanced cattle genetics and its status as a leading beef exporter.
2. Missy (Eastside Lewisdale Gold Missy) – $1.2 Million (Uxbridge, Ontario, Canada)
Missy, a Holstein cow from Canada, was auctioned for $1.2 million in 2009, making her the most expensive cow at that time. Born in Pleasant Valley, Prince Edward Island, Missy gained fame for her exceptional dairy production and show success, including being named Supreme Grand Champion at the 2011 World Dairy Expo. Her genetics have been influential in the Holstein breed, with her offspring continuing her legacy of dairy excellence.
3. Apple (KHW Regiment Apple-Red) – $1 Million (Wisconsin, USA)
KHW Regiment Apple-Red, known simply as Apple, is a renowned Red Holstein cow sold for $1 million. Celebrated for her outstanding genetic profile and show ring achievements, Apple has been a cornerstone in Red Holstein breeding programs. Her progeny have inherited her superior traits, making significant impacts in dairy herds worldwide.
4. Goldwyn Hailey – $1.15 Million (Quebec, Canada)
RF Goldwyn Hailey, a Holstein cow from Quebec, Canada, was sold for $1.15 million. Hailey is acclaimed for her exceptional conformation and dairy strength, winning numerous championships, including Supreme Champion titles at major dairy shows. Her genetics have been highly influential, contributing to the advancement of Holstein breeding globally.
5. Smiddiehill Top Model – $1.8 Million (Lancashire, United Kingdom)
Smiddiehill Top Model, a British Holstein cow, was sold for approximately $1.8 million. Her exceptional genetic lineage and superior milk production capabilities made her a valuable asset in the dairy industry. Top Model’s offspring have continued to enhance dairy herds, reflecting her outstanding genetic contributions.
6. Dupasquier Outside – $1.5 Million (Quebec, Canada)
Dupasquier Outside, a Holstein cow from Quebec, Canada, was sold for $1.5 million. Known for her impressive milk production and strong genetic profile, she has been instrumental in improving dairy cattle genetics. Her descendants have carried forward her legacy, contributing significantly to the dairy industry
7. Lylehaven Lila Z – $1.15 Million (Vermont, USA)
Lylehaven Lila Z, a Holstein cow from Vermont, USA, was sold for $1.15 million. Renowned for her exceptional genetic traits and high milk production, Lila Z has been a pivotal figure in Holstein breeding. Her progeny have been highly sought after, making substantial impacts in dairy herds across the globe.
8. Riverdane Roses – $1.5 Million (Cheshire, United Kingdom)
Riverdane Roses, a Holstein cow from the United Kingdom, was sold for approximately $1.5 million. Her superior genetics and show ring success have made her a standout in the dairy industry. Roses’ offspring continue to influence Holstein breeding, enhancing dairy production and cattle quality.
9. Brookview Tony Charity – $1.4 Million (Ontario, Canada)
Brookview Tony Charity, a Holstein cow from Ontario, Canada, was sold for $1.4 million. Celebrated for her exceptional dairy conformation and production, she has been a significant contributor to Holstein’s genetics. Charity’s legacy endures through her descendants, who continue to impact the dairy industry positively.
10. Greenlea Artie Mona – $1.2 Million (Wisconsin, USA)
Greenlea Artie Mona, a Red and White Holstein cow from Wisconsin, USA, was sold for $1.2 million. Known for her outstanding genetic profile and show success, Mona has been influential in Red and White Holstein breeding. Her progeny have perpetuated her superior traits, contributing to advancements in dairy cattle genetics.
The Rise of Elite Cattle Auctions
Over the past few decades, elite cattle auctions have transformed the industry, spotlighting the immense value of top-tier genetics and breeding. These events attract wealthy breeders, dairy farmers, and investors who recognize the potential for substantial returns through superior milk production, show success, or genetic sales. The growing demand for specialized breeds, like Holstein for dairy or Nelore for beef, has elevated auction prices to staggering levels.
References:
She’s the world’s most expensive cow, and part of Brazil’s plan to put beef on everyone’s plate
4 Most Expensive Cattle Ever Sold (With Auction Videos)
New genetically bred beef cow in Brazil
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