I see it as on par with buying art, or a relic. Sure that 3rd century goblet can be drank out of, but that’s not why someone buys it. The argument I hear in my head is that “it’s a part of history.” While true, I don’t think it’s worth that to have in a private collection, but I could see its value in being displayed by a public institution. (I’m not defending the price, just the view that it does have value.)