Eiffel Tour. Photo: Shutterstock A rare piece of the Eiffel Tower is set to go under the hammer in Paris, offering collectors a chance to own a part of one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.
On May 21, 2026, Artcurial will present a section of the Eiffel Tower’s original spiral staircase, dating back to 1889. The structure, designed under the supervision of Gustave Eiffel, once connected the second and third levels of the monument.
The piece stands 2.75 meters tall and 1.75 meters in diameter. Made of steel and riveted sheet metal, it includes 14 steps mounted on a cross-shaped base. It was originally part of the staircase used by visitors to climb toward the top of the tower when it first opened for the 1889 World’s Fair.
Described as “a witness to history,” the staircase remained in place for nearly a century before being removed during modernization work in 1983, when lifts were installed to improve access. That same year, 20 sections of the staircase were auctioned directly from the tower.
The section now returning to auction was part of that original sale and has remained in the same private collection for more than 40 years. It has since been restored by the workshops responsible for maintaining the Eiffel Tower, preserving both its structure and original details.
Over the years, pieces of the staircase have been dispersed around the world. Some are now displayed in international locations, including Japan and the United States, while others are held in private collections. Only a few remain in France, making this upcoming sale particularly notable.
Previous auctions suggest strong demand for such items. In 2013, one section sold for over €212,000, while another reached more than €523,000 in 2016. More recent sales have also exceeded estimates, reflecting steady interest from collectors of historic architectural pieces.
With an estimated value of €120,000 to €150,000, the upcoming lot may attract similar attention. For collectors and history enthusiasts alike, it represents a tangible link to the early days of one of the most recognizable structures in the world.