Breyer horses are a beloved toy that generations of children and collectors have enjoyed for over 70 years. These miniature models of horses are known for their exceptional detail and accuracy, making them highly sought after by collectors worldwide. Each Breyer horse is handcrafted and hand-painted by skilled artisans, ensuring that every horse is unique.
While many Breyer horses are mass-produced, some are rare and highly sought after. These rare horses are often limited-edition models, meaning that only a certain number were produced before the mold was retired. Others are rare because they were only made for a short period or were exclusive to a particular event or retailer.
This article will explore the 8 rarest Breyer horses, discuss what makes them so rare, and the estimated price they can fetch. Please note Brayer has produced several limited-run, special-run, and on-off models over the years. In this list, we have included only those that made an appearance in an auction in recent times.
8. Traditional Breyer Horse: “Mosaic”
Number of units produced: 350
Year: 2001
Sold for: $1,425
Image source: modelequus.com
Traditional Breyer Horse: “Mosaic” is a rare limited edition model produced in 2001. The mold used for this model was crafted the previous year and is a portrait of the legendary steeplechase horse Lonesome Glory, sculpted by Kitty Cantrell.
“Mosaic” is a bay pinto. Only 350 of this model were made for Breyer’s Connoisseur Series. Due to its limited production and the fact that it has been over 22 years since its release, only a few of these models are known to exist, making it highly sought after by collectors.
The model sold in 2022 fetched an impressive price of $1,425, reflecting its rarity and desirability among collectors.
7. Sunshine Celebration “Cocoa Beach” Adios
Number of units produced: 100
Year: 2011
Sold for: $1,803
Image source: media.cheggcdn.com
It is a special-edition model created for the Sunshine Celebration event held in Orlando, Florida, in 2011. The Chilean thoroughbred “Cocoa Beach ” inspired the design,” which came from the Adios mold. “2011 Limited Edition” is stamped in gold lettering on its belly.
Only 100 of these models were produced, and attendees at the event could purchase one through a raffle system. Christian Hess sculpted the Adios mold. It was modeled on Adios, a famous Standardbred racer.
In 2022, a previously owned Sunshine Celebration Cocoa Beach model horse was sold at an auction for $1803 was in mint condition and had previously been owned by Breyer collectors Doris Delizia and Rebecca Kahl.
6. Breyerfest Nottingham
Number of units produced: 137
Year: 2011
Sold for: $1,575
Image source: breyervalueguide.com
Nottingham Breyer horse, made in 2011, is a rare model produced in extremely limited quantities, with only 137 models crafted for the silver anniversary of Breyerfest. These special horses were created as a token of appreciation for the volunteers who dedicated their time and effort to make the event successful.
The model horse boasts stunning craftsmanship and attention to detail, with a beautiful paint job and intricate sculpting that captures the essence of the majestic equine form. Its rarity and exclusivity make it a true gem in the world of model horses and a testament to the dedication and passion of the Breyer community.
5. Breyer Banner-Blue Version
Number of units produced: 30
Year: 2019
Sold for: $3,662
Image source: breyervalueguide.com
The Breyer Horse Banner-Blue Version is a relatively new addition, having been introduced as a special-run model in 2019 to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of BreyerFest. It quickly became a sought-after collectible with a limited production run of just 30 models. The model number is 711341, and it boasts a striking glossy translucent blue and green color scheme that has been widely admired by fans and collectors alike.
While the unique color of the Banner-Blue Version has been a major draw for enthusiasts, it’s worth noting that the finish of this model is not without its imperfections. Some small smudges may be present on the nose and hip, which is something to keep in mind for those who are particularly detail-oriented. Nonetheless, the Banner-Blue Version is a great choice for collectors looking to add a rare and eye-catching piece to their collection.
4. Breyer Mariah’s Boon
Number of units produced: 26
Year: 2012
Sold for: $1,800
Image source: i.ebayimg.com
Mariah’s Boon was Breyer’s 2012 Celebration model, which collectors highly covet due to its rarity. The model was presented in the 2012 Breyer Festival held in Kentucky and awarded as the costume contest prize.
Mariah’s Boon was an American Drum Horse stallion owned by Laura Moon. He was a celebrity horse, winning many accolades. During a show, a small metal wire penetrated his stomach, causing an abdominal abscess. The recovery process was tedious and painful, but he made it. After multiple surgeries at Florida University’s veterinary hospital between 2008 and 2009, he fully recovered and returned to the show ring.
Breyer selected him to be its celebration horse to honor his great spirit. Only 26 examples of this super-rare model were made.
3. Breyer Velvet Rope Event Special Frankenstang
Number of units produced: 21 + 200 (miniature)
Year: 2009
Sold for: $1,260 (miniature)
Image source: nonamehiding.com
The Frankenstang model was the table centerpiece for Breyer’s Velvet Rope Event held during Halloween 2008.
The horse was made using the G3 Rearing Andalusian mold sculpted by Jane Lunger and finished in green. Only 21 units of full-size Frankenstang were made, and they ruffled to lucky winners. Additionally, 200 units of the horse were made in miniature to distribute among the guests.
An original full-size Frankenstang is extremely rare; however, miniature ones appear in the secondary market from time to time. One of them was sold for $1,260 in an auction in 2022.
2. Breyer Dappled Sabino Buckskin Alborozo
Number of units produced: Unknown
Year: 2008
Sold for: $22,000
Image source: theplaidhorse.s3.amazonaws.com
Alborozo is a traditional scale mold sculpted by Brigitte Eberl. The mold was released in BreyerFest 2008 as a super limited edition. After the event, Breyer destroyed the mold so that no more horses could be made using the mold. However, they kept a few blank models for future BreyerFest auctions.
Since then, the mold has been used a few times with unique colorways and has become one of the most sought-after Breyer models ever. During the fest held in 2019, Breyer colored it Glossy Sooty Dappled Buckskin Sabino Pinto, which was sold for a record price of $22,000. It is the highest price for a model in the BreyerFest auction.
1. Breyer Horse Ukraine Benefit Model
Number of units produced: 1
Year: 2022
Sold for: $11,400
Image source: cdn.shopify.com
The Breyer Horse Ukraine Benefit model is the rarest Breyer horse on this list, as only one was produced. This unique test-run Breyer model was auctioned off in 2022 to support Ukrainian relief efforts. The model features a beautiful blue colorway in honor of the Ukrainian flag, with its blue stripe representing the clear blue sky and streams of the Ukrainian landscape.
Inspired by the 2019 Collector Club release “Lancelot,” the Breyer studio artists painted Emerson, a standing Thoroughbred, in a shimmering electric blue with pearl basecoat, blaze, four socks, and a gloss finish specifically for this charity auction.
Reeves, the parent company of Breyer, matched the final auction price dollar-for-dollar for a total donation of $22,800 to Ukrainian relief. The donation was split evenly between three charitable organizations: World Central Kitchen, Heart to Heart International, and Americares. These organizations provide critical food, medication, and aid throughout Ukraine and Eastern Europe.
