This guide provides a complete catalog of all AWP skins in Counter-Strike 2. It breaks down every finish, from common Mil-Spec grades to the legendary Covert skins. Understanding the rarity, collection, and market value of a skin is critical for traders and collectors.
This resource details market prices, wear levels, and the unique attributes that define each AWP's position in the CS2 economy.
A Comprehensive Catalog of Every AWP Skin
The AWP is a canvas for some of the most iconic designs in Counter-Strike. Since the 2013 Arms Deal update, Valve has released dozens of finishes, creating a large collection of all AWP skins that vary in style, rarity, and price.
Each skin is assigned a quality grade that directly impacts its drop rate and market value. A skin's classification provides a clear indicator of its unboxing probability and its baseline price on trading platforms.
Understanding Rarity Distribution
AWP skin tiers are not distributed equally. The system is weighted toward lower grades by design, creating a value pyramid with a few ultra-rare skins at the peak, supported by a large base of common finishes. This structure fuels mechanics like trade-up contracts and drives the desirability of top-tier items.
The chart below illustrates the number of unique AWP skins across the three primary case-drop tiers: Covert, Classified, and Mil-Spec.
While Covert AWPs generate significant discussion, Mil-Spec skins are far more numerous and form the backbone of the trading market.
AWP Skin Rarity Tiers and Approximate Count
This table provides a breakdown of AWP skin rarity tiers and the approximate number of unique finishes in each category.
| Rarity Tier | Tier Color | Number of AWP Skins | Example Skin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Covert | Red | 9 | Dragon Lore |
| Classified | Pink | 17 | Asiimov |
| Restricted | Purple | 23 | Hyper Beast |
| Mil-Spec | Blue | 31 | PAW |
| Industrial Grade | Light Blue | 8 | Safari Mesh |
| Consumer Grade | White/Grey | 12 | Snake Camo |
This data puts the rarity spectrum into perspective. While high-tier skins receive the most attention, the volume of Mil-Spec and Restricted skins makes them critical to the daily function of the market.
To acquire these skins at optimal prices, our CS2 deals bot scans top marketplaces to find the best available listings.
What Makes an AWP Skin Valuable?
An AWP skin's price is determined by more than its design. Market value hinges on key attributes: float value, wear level, pattern index, and special versions like StatTrak™.
These factors explain why two visually identical skins can have significantly different price tags. Understanding these mechanics is a fundamental step for any serious trader or collector.
Float Value and Wear Levels
Every skin is assigned a permanent float value upon unboxing, a number between 0.00 and 1.00 that dictates its visual wear. This number places the skin into one of five wear levels. A lower float results in a cleaner appearance, which translates to a higher price.
The conditions are broken down as follows. Collectors often pay significant premiums for the lowest possible floats within a tier.
- Factory New (FN): 0.00 – 0.07 float. These are pristine, flawless versions that command the highest prices.
- Minimal Wear (MW): 0.07 – 0.15 float. Minor scuffs may be present, but the skin remains in excellent condition.
- Field-Tested (FT): 0.15 – 0.37 float. This is the median tier where wear becomes noticeable. It is a common budget-friendly option.
- Well-Worn (WW): 0.37 – 0.45 float. The design is visibly scratched and faded, indicating heavy use.
- Battle-Scarred (BS): 0.45 – 1.00 float. The skin is heavily damaged, with large portions of the artwork often removed.
Pattern Index and Special Variants
Beyond wear, the pattern index is a critical factor for certain skins. It is a numerical value that determines how a skin's texture is applied to the weapon model. While irrelevant for most finishes, it is crucial for others, such as the AWP | PAW, where a rare "golden cat" pattern increases its value substantially.
Two special variants add another layer of value:
- StatTrak™: These skins feature an LED counter that tracks kills. They have approximately a 10% chance of being unboxed from a case and are consistently more expensive than their standard counterparts.
- Souvenir: Souvenir skins are exclusive drops from packages available during CS2 Major tournaments. They feature unique golden stickers from the event, making them exceptionally rare and valuable. The Souvenir AWP | Dragon Lore can exceed $150,000.
Note: Prices and fees are subject to change. Always verify current rates on the platform's official website before trading.
Understanding these details is how traders identify profitable opportunities. To see the upper limits of skin values, see our guide on the most expensive skins in CS2.
Covert AWP Skins: The Apex Tier
The pinnacle of AWP skins is the Covert (red) rarity tier. These are the highest-grade skins available from cases and collections, and owning one is a significant status symbol in the CS2 community. They are defined by their intricate designs, extreme rarity, and high market value.
The appeal of skins like the Dragon Lore or Gungnir extends beyond aesthetics. They are digital artifacts with historical significance in Counter-Strike's competitive scene, which drives sustained demand and price appreciation.
The Most Iconic Covert AWPs
The Covert AWP lineup includes some of the most sought-after designs in the game. Each skin has a unique origin tied to a specific case or a discontinued map collection, which influences its supply and market behavior.
- AWP | Dragon Lore: The most iconic skin in CS2. It originates from the discontinued Cobblestone Collection, making it a cornerstone of the skin economy.
- AWP | Gungnir: A Norse-themed design from the Norse Collection, known for its vibrant blue finish and detailed engravings.
- AWP | Medusa: From the Gods and Monsters Collection, this skin's artwork of the Gorgon Medusa makes it a grail item for many collectors.
- AWP | The Prince: A regal skin from the Canals Collection featuring a rich red and gold design. Its extreme rarity makes it a top-tier collectible.
- AWP | Desert Hydra: A modern design from the Mirage 2021 Collection that has become a popular high-tier choice.
Safety Note: When dealing with high-value items, always use reputable platforms with secure payment methods. Never share your Steam login credentials or API keys with third parties. For a trusted list, see our guide to the /best-cs2-trading-sites.
AWP | Dragon Lore: A True Historical Asset
The AWP | Dragon Lore is arguably the most famous skin in Counter-Strike history. Introduced in July 2014 with the Cobblestone Collection, its legendary status and rarity have cemented it as a premier digital asset. According to community-tracked data, only around 5,584 Dragon Lores exist, with just 1,994 in Factory-New condition.
This image highlights the skin's connection to the Cobblestone Souvenir Package, the source of the rare Souvenir versions that command prices in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Market Dynamics of Top-Tier Skins
Covert AWP skins are considered investment-grade assets by many serious traders. Their prices tend to be more stable and less volatile than lower-tier items, driven by long-term supply constraints and consistent demand from high-capital collectors.
High-value trades for these skins typically occur on platforms like CSFloat or BUFF Market. A Factory New AWP | Gungnir can sell for over $10,000, while a Souvenir AWP | Dragon Lore is one of the most expensive items in CS2, often valued above $150,000. These figures demonstrate the powerful economic forces governing the scarcity of all AWP skins in the Covert tier.
High-End Designs: Classified AWP Skins
Positioned just below the Covert tier, Classified AWP skins (pink grade) offer a balance of exceptional design and accessibility for serious players and traders. These skins provide high-end aesthetics without the extreme prices of items like the Gungnir or Dragon Lore. They are a popular choice for a premium inventory centerpiece and are always in demand.
Classified skins are recognized for their complex artwork and striking color palettes. Their availability and price point make them a staple of the mid-to-high-tier market, representing a significant and achievable upgrade for players.
Key Classified AWPs You Need to Know
This category contains some of the most iconic AWP finishes in the game. Each has a distinct identity, history, and market position, making them valuable assets for trading and collection.
- AWP | Asiimov: A recognizable skin with a clean, futuristic design of white, black, and orange. Its wear pattern is notable; high floats create the "black scope" look that some collectors specifically seek.
- AWP | Wildfire: Released in the CS20 Case, this skin features a prominent dragon motif. It offers a top-tier AWP aesthetic at a relatively affordable price.
- AWP | Oni Taiji: A design inspired by traditional Japanese art, depicting a battle between a samurai and a demon. Found in the Operation Hydra Case, its detail and vibrant colors make it a community favorite.
- AWP | Redline: A classic design with a carbon fiber base and sharp red accents. Its minimalist and aggressive look remains popular.
Trader's Take: Classified skins are essential for high-stakes trade-up contracts. As the tier directly below Covert, they are the primary ingredient used by players attempting to craft the most expensive skins in CS2. This constant demand helps maintain their value.
These skins trace their origins to the 2013 Arms Deal update. For more information, you can explore the historical development of CS2 skins on Blix.gg.
What to Expect on the Market
The market for Classified AWPs is consistently active. A Minimal Wear AWP | Asiimov, for example, typically trades between $100 and $150, while an AWP | Oni Taiji can exceed $400. This pricing makes them accessible to dedicated players while remaining valuable inventory assets.
Their market value is a combination of aesthetic appeal and their role in the skin economy. They are traded frequently on marketplaces like DMarket and Tradeit.GG. For traders, they represent a balanced investment—less volatile than Mil-Spec skins but more attainable than Covert-tier items. Our /cs2-deals-bot is useful for tracking the best listings as they become available.
Restricted AWP Skins: The Collector's Mid-Tier
Restricted AWP skins (purple rarity) represent the market's middle ground. This tier offers compelling designs without the high cost of Classified or Covert items, making them a popular choice for a player's first significant inventory upgrade.
This category includes community favorites like the Hyper Beast, Neo-Noir, and Atheris. They provide excellent visual quality for their price and are a cornerstone of the skin economy.
Notable Restricted AWP Designs
The Restricted tier contains numerous creative and popular designs that are frequently seen in-game. They are accessible, visually appealing, and a core component of any comprehensive catalog of all AWP skins.
- AWP | Hyper Beast: From the Falchion Case, this skin features a psychedelic design of a monstrous creature. It has been a favored mid-tier finish since its release.
- AWP | Neo-Noir: Found in the Danger Zone Case, this skin has a high-contrast comic book art style with a magenta and blue color scheme.
- AWP | Atheris: A budget-friendly icon from the Prisma Case, featuring a green bush viper coiled around the rifle. It is an aggressive and widely popular choice.
- AWP | Corticera: An older design from the eSports 2014 Summer Collection. Its clean blue and green floral pattern provides a simple, elegant look.
Disclaimer: CS2 gambling and case opening involve real money and risk. Only gamble what you can afford to lose. Must be 18+ or the legal age in your jurisdiction. If you have gambling problems, visit BeGambleAware.org.
Getting Your Hands on Restricted Skins
Buying Restricted skins directly from a marketplace is more cost-effective than opening cases. Based on community-verified data compiled from thousands of case openings, the drop rate for any Restricted skin is approximately 15.98%, or about 1 in every 6 cases.
The AWP | Atheris, for example, is clearly identified as a Restricted item from the Prisma Collection. This information helps establish its market price across different wear levels as an accessible yet stylish option.
For those who choose to open cases, using trusted platforms is essential. We maintain an updated list of verified CS2 gambling sites. However, direct purchase remains the most reliable method.
Their Role in the Trade-Up Game
Restricted AWP skins are fundamental to trade-up contracts. Traders collect ten Restricted skins from the same collection for a contract, hoping to receive a single, more valuable Classified skin in return.
This consistent demand for trade-up inputs creates a stable price floor for Restricted skins, ensuring they maintain a baseline value. This process is how players attempt to craft iconic skins like the AWP | Asiimov. To secure the best prices on these crucial inputs, our /cs2-deals-bot provides real-time alerts from multiple marketplaces.
Budget AWP Skins: Mil-Spec & Industrial Grade
The Mil-Spec (blue) and Industrial Grade (light blue) tiers form the foundation of the AWP skin market. These are the most common drops from cases and account for a significant portion of the market's trading volume. While they lack the high price tags of rarer skins, they are vital for budget-conscious players and high-volume traders.
Skins in this category, such as the AWP | PAW, AWP | Worm God, and AWP | Safari Mesh, are highly accessible, often costing only a few dollars. This makes them an ideal entry point for new players. For a complete view of the AWP skin catalog, visit the entire AWP skin catalog on TotalCSGO.
Why Common Skins Are a Big Deal
The value of these common skins extends beyond their in-game appearance. They are the primary components used in trade-up contracts, a core mechanic of the skin economy. The system requires ten skins of one rarity to trade for a single skin of the next higher tier, creating persistent demand for these inexpensive items.
Traders often purchase these skins in bulk to attempt profitable trade-ups. For example, a trader might use ten Mil-Spec skins from the Horizon Collection in a contract, aiming to receive a Restricted-tier AWP | PAW. This economic cycle maintains a price floor for even the most common skins.
Trader Insight: Profitability with Mil-Spec skins comes from volume, not individual sales. Successful trade-up artists source these skins below market average, often using automated tools to find deals across various sites.
Top 5 Budget AWP Skins (Under $10)
These skins offer excellent value for players seeking a quality AWP finish without a significant investment. This table compares some of the most popular and accessible options available for under $10.
| Skin Name | Collection/Case | Wear Level | Typical Price (Minimal Wear) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AWP | Atheris | Prisma Case | Field-Tested to Factory New | ~$4.50 | An aggressive, colorful design on a budget. |
| AWP | PAW | Horizon Case | Field-Tested to Factory New | ~$2.00 | A fun theme with unique pattern potential. |
| AWP | Worm God | Chroma 2 Case | Field-Tested to Factory New | ~$1.75 | A clean, monochromatic aesthetic. |
| AWP | Phobos | Gamma Case | Field-Tested to Factory New | ~$1.50 | A sci-fi design at a very low price point. |
| AWP | Acheron | Cache Collection | Field-Tested to Factory New | ~$0.80 | A dark, subtle design for minimalists. |
While these skins are not high-growth assets, their accessibility makes them a practical choice. Many can be obtained through platform promotions or rewards. Our guide on obtaining /free-cs2-skins explains legitimate methods for acquiring these foundational skins without cost.
How To Get AWP Skins Safely
Acquiring an AWP skin can be done through direct purchase, trading, or case openings. Each method carries different levels of risk and reward.
The most direct and secure method is purchasing from a trusted third-party marketplace. Platforms like Skinport or CSFloat act as secure intermediaries, handling transactions and protecting users from common scams. These sites offer a wide selection of AWP skins for direct purchase.
Lock Down Your Account First
Before engaging in any trading activity, securing your account is essential.
- Turn on 2FA: Enable the Steam Guard Mobile Authenticator. This is the most effective defense against unauthorized account access.
- Hide Your API Key: Never share your Steam API key. Scammers use fake trading sites to acquire it, allowing them to intercept and redirect trades.
- Check Every URL: Phishing attacks are common. Scammers create replicas of legitimate sites to steal login credentials. Always verify the URL before entering any information.
Safety Note: Always use reputable platforms with secure payment methods. Never share your Steam login credentials or API keys with third parties.
The Hard Truth About Cases
From a financial perspective, direct purchase is almost always more cost-effective than unboxing a skin. Based on community-verified data, case openings have a negative expected return, meaning players lose money on average over time.
Case openings should be viewed as entertainment, not an investment strategy. To guarantee acquisition of a specific AWP skin, buying it directly is the recommended approach. For a review of reliable platforms, see our guide on the best CS2 trading websites.
To ensure you are paying a fair price, our /cs2-deals-bot scans dozens of sites 24/7 and alerts you to favorable listings. You can also browse our list of /best-cs2-trading-sites to find a platform we have vetted for security and reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions About All AWP Skins
This section answers common questions from traders and players about the AWP skin market.
What Are the Odds of Unboxing a Covert AWP Skin?
The probability of unboxing any Covert (red) item is approximately 0.64%, according to community-verified data from thousands of case openings. This equates to roughly 1 in every 156 cases. The chance of that item being a specific AWP depends on the number of other Covert skins in the case. Purchasing the skin directly is a more cost-effective method.
What Is the Most Expensive AWP Skin Ever Sold?
The most expensive AWP skin is the Souvenir AWP | Dragon Lore in Factory New condition. While public sales are rare, private transactions have reportedly exceeded $150,000. The price increases further for versions with stickers from professional players at Major tournaments. Its value is driven by extreme scarcity, as very few are known to exist in pristine condition.
Is It Better to Buy an AWP Skin or Open Cases?
From a financial standpoint, buying the skin directly is superior. Case openings in CS2 have a negative long-term expected return. The average cost of a key ($2.50) is higher than the average value of the unboxed item (under $2.00). Case opening should be treated as entertainment rather than an investment strategy.
How Does Float Value Affect an AWP Skin's Price?
Float value, a number from 0.00 to 1.00, significantly impacts a skin's price by determining its visual wear. A low float (e.g., 0.01) results in a cleaner appearance and can increase a skin's value by 2x to 10x compared to a high-float version of the same skin. For collectors, skins with exceptionally low or high floats can command substantial premiums.
Are All AWP Skins Available from Case Openings?
No, many notable AWP skins are not available from standard weapon cases. Iconic skins like the Dragon Lore and Medusa originated from map-specific Collections and were obtainable only as rare in-game drops during Majors or through high-risk trade-up contracts. Other skins are exclusive to Operation rewards or special event packages. Some can also be won, such as in our AWP Asiimov giveaway.
