First Public Auction of Diplomatic Gifts: Rolex Watches, Silverware on Offer

For the first time, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is offering diplomatic gifts and souvenirs for public auction through e-bidding. Nearly 300 items, presented to government functionaries during official engagements, are now accessible to the public.

The auction began on June 8, 2025, and will continue until June 30, 2026. Items have a reserve price of Rs 2,385 and above. Highlights include two Rolex Yacht-Master watches, a silver dagger from Oman, a sterling silver tea set made in London, an Apple MacBook Pro, silver decorative items, and gold jewellery.

According to MEA officials, this is the first time the public can purchase articles from the ministry's Toshakhana collection. The revised Toshakhana Rules, 2024, which came into force recently, enabled this auction.

The auction includes gifts received by serving government officers of the rank of Foreign Secretary and below during official missions overseas over several years.

One of the most attractive items is an antique silver box from the 1980s, originally designed as a luxury cigar or cigarette case. It has attracted bids well above its reserve price. Both Rolex Yacht-Master watches, each with a reserve price of around Rs 16.5 lakh, are also receiving good response. However, gold jewellery from Kuwait, with a reserve price of approximately Rs 9.5 lakh, has not attracted any bids so far.

A decorative silver box with gold-plated dragons and a 20-gram Swiss gold biscuit inside has also seen bidding surpass its reserve price.

The auction is organised by the Toshakhana Section of the Establishment Division of MEA. Reserve prices are set by a valuation committee. Packing and shipping charges are added to the appraised price. Winning bidders will receive free delivery after the auction ends on June 30.

This is the first public auction of Toshakhana items. The only previous auction, in 1983, was limited to employees of the Ministry of External Affairs.

Proceeds from the sale will go into the Consolidated Fund of India.

Notably, this auction includes only gifts received by serving government officers. MEA officials said that future auctions may include gifts received by successive External Affairs Ministers.

Toshakhana is the official name for the collection of gifts and souvenirs received by Indian government functionaries from foreign governments, dignitaries, and other overseas sources during official engagements. Officials clarified that most items are ceremonial, decorative, heritage, or collectible in nature and not meant for practical use.