The Richest Royals of All Time, Ranked
Throughout history, royalty has often been synonymous with immense wealth, luxury, and influence. From ancient empires to modern monarchies, royal families have built vast fortunes through land ownership, trade, taxation, and investments. But who are the richest royals of all time? Here’s a ranking of some of the wealthiest monarchs in history, showcasing their staggering fortunes and enduring legacies.
1. Mansa Musa I of Mali – Net Worth: $400 Billion (Adjusted for Inflation)
Often regarded as the wealthiest person in history, Mansa Musa I ruled the Mali Empire during the 14th century. His wealth came from controlling vast gold mines, which supplied much of the world’s gold at the time. Musa’s legendary pilgrimage to Mecca in 1324, during which he distributed gold so generously that it caused inflation in cities he passed, remains a testament to his unparalleled riches.
2. Emperor Shenzong of Song (China) – Net Worth: $320 Billion
Ruling during the 11th century, Emperor Shenzong oversaw one of the most economically advanced periods in Chinese history. The Song Dynasty’s wealth stemmed from innovations in agriculture, trade, and technology, making it one of the richest dynasties in history.
3. Akbar I (Mughal Empire) – Net Worth: $250 Billion
Akbar the Great, who ruled the Mughal Empire in the 16th century, presided over an empire rich in trade, culture, and innovation. The Mughal Empire controlled a significant portion of the global economy, thanks to its flourishing agriculture and trade networks. Akbar’s wealth was legendary, reflected in his opulent court and grand architectural projects, such as the city of Fatehpur Sikri.
4. King Louis XIV of France – Net Worth: $200 Billion
Known as the “Sun King,” Louis XIV reigned over France for 72 years, transforming it into a global superpower. His wealth was tied to France’s economic dominance during the 17th century. He built the extravagant Palace of Versailles, a symbol of his immense fortune and absolute power.
5. Tsar Nicholas II of Russia – Net Worth: $300 Billion (in 1917 dollars)
The last Emperor of Russia, Nicholas II, controlled vast landholdings and resources. The Romanov family’s wealth was tied to Russia’s enormous size and natural resources. Although his reign ended tragically with the Russian Revolution, Nicholas’s fortune remains one of the largest in history.
6. King Solomon (Ancient Israel) – Net Worth: Estimated $2.2 Trillion (Legendary Value)
While historical records are unclear, King Solomon of Israel is often associated with legendary wealth. According to biblical accounts, Solomon amassed vast treasures of gold, silver, and other resources, along with immense wisdom and power.
7. Andrew Carnegie (Honorary Mention – Not a Royal) – Net Worth: $480 Billion
Though not a monarch, Andrew Carnegie’s wealth during the industrial age eclipsed many royal fortunes. His name is often brought into discussions about wealth, though his status as a commoner sets him apart.
8. Queen Elizabeth II (UK) – Net Worth: $600 Million (excluding Crown Estate)
The late Queen Elizabeth II, although not the richest royal on this list, remains an icon of modern royalty. Her personal fortune, combined with the vast holdings of the British Crown Estate (valued at $28 billion), solidified her status as one of the wealthiest royals of the 20th and 21st centuries.
9. Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei – Net Worth: $30 Billion
As the Sultan of oil-rich Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah enjoys an extravagant lifestyle funded by the country’s petroleum resources. His lavish spending, including a palace with 1,788 rooms and a vast collection of luxury cars, has earned him international recognition.
10. King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz (Saudi Arabia) – Net Worth: $18 Billion
The late King Abdullah presided over one of the world’s largest oil-producing nations. His wealth was intrinsically tied to Saudi Arabia’s oil reserves, which continue to fund the country’s royal family.
Royal Wealth: Then and Now
From the ancient empires of Africa and Asia to modern monarchies in Europe and the Middle East, royal fortunes have always captured public imagination. While some amassed their wealth through conquest and control of resources, others inherited vast empires or capitalized on trade and industry.
Though the concept of royalty has evolved over time, the legacy of these rulers and their immense fortunes continues to fascinate us. Who do you think deserves the title of the greatest royal icon?
