Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) is the latest installment in Valve’s acclaimed first-person shooter (FPS) series. Part of the franchise’s enduring success extends beyond a vibrant esports landscape, penetrating a bustling marketplace with avid CS2 skin traders.
Within this market, knife skins hold the distinction of symbolizing the pinnacle of status. But why is this the case? If you’re interested, join us as we explore CS2’s most extravagant knife skins, detailing the unique features and factors that propel their prices into the stratosphere.
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What Is A Knife Skin In CS2?
A knife skin in CS2 is a custom design or pattern that overlays the original version of the knife in-game. It’s a form of visual customization that doesn’t impact gameplay but can greatly enhance the aesthetic appeal of the weapon.
Like all weapon, agent, or glove skins, you obtain knife skins from weapon cases that CS2 players pay to open. These cases offer a chance at several potentially rare and valuable items. Every time a skin is unboxed, the game randomly chooses a Float and Pattern for the skin.
These attributes determine the look and level of wear of the skin, ranging from Factory New to Minimal Wear, Field Tested, Well Worn, and Battle Scarred. Together with a few other elements discussed later, these factors determine a knife skin’s trade price.
The 10 Most Expensive Knife Skins In CS2
Purchasing CS2 knife and weapon skins is rewarding, with the Steam Community Market or third-party platforms providing the wares. Let’s take a look into the top 10 most expensive CS2 knife skins in the world.
1. Karambit Case Hardened (Blue Gem)
Added in the Arms Deal Update of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, the Karambit Case Hardened has become a legendary item. Specifically, the variant owned by enigmatic trader Newb Rage is now renowned as the most expensive CS2 knife globally.
According to YouTuber ohnePixel, the rare knife’s value was estimated at $800,000 in 2021. However, a later revaluation soared the price to more than $1.4 million, a staggering increase from its purchase price of $100,000 just five years earlier.
Today, critics claim the Karambit knife could command upwards of $2 million. Thanks to its minuscule Wear Rating of 0.0480 and the coveted Pattern Template 387, the blade is revered for its distinctive all-blue aesthetic, earning it the nickname “The Blue Gem.”
2. Butterfly Knife Doppler (Sapphire)
The Doppler Sapphire is among the most expensive knife skins in CS2, priced from $18,500 to $30,000. This knife was added to the series on March 15, 2017, and is exclusive to Spectrum Cases. It boasts a striking deep-purple hue, polished finish, and unique folding design.
3. Butterfly Knife Gamma Doppler (Emerald)
This blade holds a distinctive place in CS2’s armory but carries a hefty price tag, ranging from $20,500 to $28,000. The dual-blade design is enveloped in green metallic hues, displaying a striking smoke-like wave pattern that mimics the texture of polished emerald gemstone.
4. M9 Bayonet Doppler (Sapphire)
The M9 Bayonet Doppler Sapphire is exclusive to Chroma cases, and it commands a staggering price range of $16,000 to $23,000 when in Factory New condition. Distinguishing this variant is the lustrous blue tint, marking a finely cut sapphire gemstone with an impeccably polished, mirror-like sheen.
5. Karambit Doppler (Emerald)
Like the Sapphire, the Karambit Doppler Emerald is an ultra rare knife skin in CS2. Released in CS:GO on June 15, 2016 during the Gamma Exposure update, this weapon is priced between $17,000 to $20,000 and boasts a beautiful green metallic finish distinct from emerald gemstones.
6. Karambit Doppler (Sapphire)
The Karambit Doppler Sapphire is considered a rare knife skin in CS2. With a release date of Jan. 8, 2015, this weapon is priced from $15,000 to $20,000. But, what sets it apart is the signature curved blade adorned with a rich, deep blue metallic finish and waves that mirror wisps of smoke.
7. M9 Bayonet Doppler (Ruby)
The M9 Bayonet Doppler Ruby is an extremely valuable knife skin in CS2, only available with Float Values of 0.00-0.08. It comes with a hefty price tag of $14,000 Factory New, making this blade a collector’s item. It boasts a polished ruby-red finish that shimmers when viewed at the right angle.
8. Butterfly Knife Doppler (Ruby)
This Butterfly Knife variant is priced around $12,500 to $16,500, contingent on the Float Value. The blade emulates the red of a ruby gemstone and is ornamented with wavy lines. It also has an unpainted handle that’s enhanced with rich brown inserts that complement the blade’s color.
9. Karambit Doppler (Ruby)
The Karambit Ruby is infused with a beautiful metallic red sheen—similar to a ruby’s luster, embellished with faint wavy lines that look like smoke. This blade’s deep red color is accentuated by CS2’s enhanced lighting, so it’s no surprise a Factory New condition can sell for upwards of $9,500!
10. Butterfly Knife Lore
The Butterfly Knife Lore was inspired by the iconic AWP Dragon Lore and is adorned with a gold-toned finish. Its unique knotted pattern is embellished with a Celtic ornament in warm beige tones. Available in all conditions, this blade’s price sways around $8,000 Factory New!
Honorable Mentions
To end our list of the most expensive CS2 skins, here are a few honorable mentions:
- Talon Knife Doppler Sapphire
- M9 Bayonet Crimson Web
- Karambit Crimson Web
- Stiletto Knife Crimson Web
- Butterfly Knife Marble Fade
- M9 Bayonet Gamma Doppler Emerald
Why Are These CS2 Knife Skins So Expensive?
Are you stunned by the prices of some CS2 skins? You’re not alone. But several key factors contribute to these astronomical price tags. Rarity is one aspect, with scarce skins becoming prized possessions among collectors.
A skin’s condition, represented by the Float Value, also significantly influences its price. New condition skins typically command higher prices, as wear signs like scratches and abrasions are absent even at higher Float Values.
Demand plays a crucial role in the price equation, too. Skins with unique designs or links with renowned esports figures, teams, or events can command higher prices due to increased desirability. In fact, skins forming part of a collection may lead to steeper prices as well. Now that you’ve got the scoop on CS2’s most expensive knife skins, it’s time to kick things up a notch! Take a punt on your favorite esports teams with Thunderpick and check out Counter-Strike 2 live bets now!
