Watch out Space Marine players, the iconic Eldar Codex art from 1994 sold for over $60k; here’s why this Warhammer 40k second edition masterpiece is a collector’s item today.
Warhammer 40k fans know that nothing says “iconic” quite like a cover from the ’90s, especially when it features the Eldar charging into battle in a blaze of color. Recently, an original piece of Warhammer history made waves when the cover art for the 1994 Second Edition 40k Eldar Codex sold for over $60,000. That’s right – this isn’t just any artwork; it’s the Geoff Taylor masterpiece that sparked the imaginations of a generation of players, giving us all serious Eldar envy.
Whether you’re new to the 41st millennium or have been around long enough to remember when psychic cards were a thing, this story is a reminder that the art of Warhammer 40k is as valuable as the lore itself.
Iconic Warhammer 40k Eldar 2nd Edition Codex Art Sells for $65K: A Piece of Gaming History
The Warhammer 40k universe is filled with iconic lore, stunning artwork, and a rich history that continues to captivate fans worldwide. One of the most treasured pieces of Warhammer history, Geoff Taylor’s original cover art for the 1994 second edition Eldar Codex, recently sold for an astonishing $65,117 (£50,200) on eBay. This sale puts an exclamation point on the lasting influence of Warhammer’s visual and artistic heritage on players and collectors alike.
1994 Eldar 2nd Edition Codex Art: The Defining Moment for the Eldar Faction
Released as part of Warhammer 40k’s second edition, the Eldar Codex introduced players to one of the most striking factions in the game. The Eldar, known for its mysterious and highly advanced technology, quickly became a favorite for those seeking a unique and tactical army.
The codex’s cover artwork, featuring elite Aspect Warriors in the midst of battle, became an enduring symbol for Eldar players. Geoff Taylor’s bold and energetic art style captured the grace and tactical brilliance of the Eldar in a way that resonated deeply with fans.
Geoff Taylor: The Artist Behind Warhammer’s Iconic Visuals
The piece comes with a certificate of authenticity.
Geoff Taylor is renowned for his work with Games Workshop throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. His dynamic and colorful illustrations helped shape Warhammer 40k’s visual identity during a time when color artwork was a rare commodity in the company’s products. Taylor’s ability to blend heroic central figures with highly detailed backgrounds gave his work a distinctive, atmospheric quality.
His cover for the Eldar Codex remains one of his most recognized pieces, influencing the way the Eldar has been perceived ever since.
Nostalgia for Second Edition Warhammer 40k
For many fans who played Warhammer 40k during the 1990s, Taylor’s Eldar Codex cover evokes a deep sense of nostalgia. The second edition of the game featured a variety of unique mechanics, from psychic cards to vehicle templates, making it a more complex and tactical experience compared to modern editions. Eldar were particularly powerful during this era, known for their advanced weaponry, psychic abilities, and intricate strategies.
The codex’s artwork became synonymous with the Eldar’s dominance during this period, making Taylor’s cover as an iconic part of Warhammer history.
A Rare and Valuable Collectible
The recent sale of the original Eldar Codex artwork highlights the growing demand for rare Warhammer collectibles. The seller, identified only as “Jamie”, purchased the artwork directly from Geoff Taylor’s website in 2016. When Jamie listed it on eBay, the auction quickly gained attention, leading to a final bid of over $65,000. This demonstrates the high value placed on Warhammer’s artistic heritage, particularly among collectors seeking rare and unique items.
Although prints of the artwork were made (they are sold out, but you can check them out here), only 250 were produced, and they have long since sold out. Geoff Taylor’s website still showcases his impressive portfolio, but none of his Games Workshop originals are currently for sale, adding to the rarity of the auctioned piece.
Geoff Taylor’s Lasting Influence on Warhammer Art
Geoff Taylor’s contributions to Warhammer extend far beyond the Eldar Codex. Over the years, he produced cover art for many other Warhammer 40k and Warhammer Fantasy supplements, including iconic factions like the Blood Angels and Space Wolves and works like Mordheim and Necromunda. His vibrant and detailed artwork has left an indelible mark on Warhammer’s visual identity, inspiring both newcomers and longtime fans of the game.
The Legacy of Warhammer 40k’s Visual Heritage
The sale of Geoff Taylor’s Eldar Codex artwork is a testament to the lasting impact of Warhammer 40k’s visual storytelling. The combination of stunning artwork and old school lore has kept the game relevant for decades, appealing to collectors and players alike. As Warhammer continues to update, the early editions and their accompanying art remain a cherished part of the game’s history, celebrating the powerful legacy of artists like Geoff Taylor.
Final Thoughts on the Sale of the 2nd Edition Eldar Codex Art
Geoff Taylor’s Eldar Codex cover isn’t just an image—it’s a snapshot of nostalgia, reminding us of the days when templates ruled the battlefield and psychic cards could make or break your day. Whether you’re a longtime collector or just stepping into the Warhammer universe, this $65,000 sale proves that the power of Warhammer art isn’t something to underestimate. Who knew that a few Eldar in battle could still cause such a stir all these years later?
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What do you think about this original Eldar 2nd Edition Codex art selling for over $60,000?
About the Author: Travis Pasch
Travis Pasch
Job Title: Head Writer & Editor
Socials: @paschbass
About Travis Pasch: Travis has been a Warhammer 40k hobbyist since the 1990s, playing the game since Third Edition. Through extensive traveling, he’s seen a lot of the miniatures hobby from across the world, giving him a unique perspective on the latest gaming topics and trends.
Travis’s brother even owns a commission painting studio, where he’s picked up a lot of good advice and techniques for painting Warhammer and tabletop miniatures over the years, as well. Travis joined the Spikey Bits team in 2019 and has been the lead writer since 2020.
Currently, he’s working on converting all his 40k Adeptus Mechanicus models and becoming a true tech enjoyer, complete with both sad and happy robot noises!
