Released in 1999, The Millennium Decanter was one of Macallan’s earliest fifty year olds
The Macallan 1949 Millennium Decanter was distilled on 14th January 1949 and matured in three butts until it was bottled by Macallan in May 1999 to celebrate the turn of the Millennium. It is presented in a hand blown crystal decanter with a copper collar made from Macallan’s decommissioned No.9 still, which was also used for the engraved plaque inside the handmade oak presentation box. During the 1940s the whisky produced by Macallan is known to be smokey, making this an interesting whisky to try for fans of the brand.
If you are looking to sell a Macallan 1949 Millennium Decanter then we can help. Read on for an analysis of the recent market for the Millennium Decanter and use the form below to receive a free valuation and advice on how to sell your decanter in 2025.
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Please use the form below to submit images of your bottle and receive a free, no-obligation valuation from a specialist auctioneer. We will also actively seek the highest offer from our network of private collectors to help you sell your whisky.
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Macallan 1949 Millennium Decanter: Market Analysis
The Macallan Millennium Decanter is one of Macallan’s earliest fifty year olds and remains scarce at auction. We have looked at the 46 auction results for the iconic Macallan 1949 Millennium Decanter that occurred between June 2012 to March 2025 to provide a comprehensive thirteen-year view of the decanter’s market performance.
The market trajectory of the decanter has been extraordinary, with values increasing nearly fourfold between 2012 and the market peak of 2019-2022. In 2012 the 1949 Millennium Decanter could be bought at auction for between £5,500 and £7,000, compared to 2019-22 when the average values reached £30,000 to £46,000.
Recent results indicate a notable market correction in line with overall trends in the whisky market and globally with collectables. Current values are around £14,000 to £20,000 – depending on the auction. This is a significant retracement from peak levels but still substantially above pre-2019 benchmarks. Complete presentation elements, including the original display case, stopper and certificate, remain crucial to achieving optimal results.
Auction house dynamics reveal distinct patterns, with certain platforms consistently achieving premium results. Regional performance demonstrates fascinating variations, with Asian auctions frequently commanding exceptional premiums. This in part can be explained by the high tariffs on getting alcohol into some Asian markets, which emphasises the importance of understanding more than just the numbers when deciding when and where to sell a bottle of collectable whisky.
For collectors who acquired bottles before 2018, current conditions still represent exceptional long-term appreciation despite the recent correction. Those who purchased during peak pricing periods face a more challenging market dynamic, though the expression’s historical significance and limited availability suggest eventual value recovery. The expression continues to represent one of the most significant Macallan releases and remains a cornerstone of serious collections despite recent market adjustments.
How to Sell Your Macallan 1949 Millennium Decanter?
As the data above shows, it is important to choose the right time and place to sell the Millennium Decanter. Not all auctions can generate the same results and choosing the right place to sell is important.
If you complete the contact form above, we can connect you with a specialist auctioneer who will provide a free, no-obligation valuation and expert advice on selling your bottle. The best whisky auctioneers will offer a free of charge collection service if you have a number of bottles, or even offer access to their own courier service if you just have a few.
Auctions often take place each month and commission varies from 5-10%+VAT and listing fees. The benefits of auction are a near guaranteed sale (if the reserve is sensible) and a quick payout after the sale. The auctioneer will advise on a suitable reserve in advance of the sale.
Alternatively, you may consider selling to a retailer. However, retailers typically offer around 30–50% of their listed price due to factors like VAT, corporation tax, and slow stock turnover, which can impact their buying decisions more than you might expect. If you sell to a retailer you will be expected to post the bottle to them yourself, although they might help with this too. Payment terms will be quick, but you will likely have to contact around 5-10 retailers to ensure you get the best possible price.
What Is Your Whisky Worth
Do you want to know what your whisky is worth but don’t know where to start?
Use these guides to help you.
What Is Your Whisky Worth? – An in-depth look at the factors affecting your bottle’s value.
A Beginner’s Guide To Selling Whisky – Everything you need to get started selling your whisky including all the online selling options.
How To Sell Whisky Online – A guide to getting a valuations and selling your whisky.
Sell Your Whisky Today – A simple way to sell your whisky fast.
Macallan Specific Guides
The Complete Guide To Valuing Macallan Whisky – Selling Macallan? This is your starting point.
What Is Macallan Whisky Worth? – Unsure of your Macallan’s value? Begin here
