Alexander Anapolsky, co-owner of Akiba Galleries (28% buyer's premium) in Dania Beach, Florida, described an Indonesian or Malaysian kris found in a New York City estate as a compelling object with great presence

However, only after it hammered for $10,000 (£7450) against a guide of $100-400 on August 28 sale did he learn something of its importance

Two bidders battling for the piece knew exactly what it was. They were in the business and had seen them before

The winner joined the contest from eastern Europe. Originally from Java, the kris became part of court regalia across Indonesia and throughout the Malay Peninsula. This example, probably made for royalty, had a spectacular pattern welded double-edged blade and a figural hit fashioned in high-carat gold and cabochon rubies. Although dated to the19th century, it was more probably 17th or 18th century.

These hilts, associated with eastern Java, are often in the form of the Nyamba, a figure in the Wayang puppet theatre with its roots in the Hindu kingdom of Majapahit (ca.1293-1500). He is known by the attributes of a crown (mahkota) and a prominent nose.

Indonesian kris and scabbard, $10,000 (£7450) at Akiba Galleries