Since The Ancient World became a public server the Nether has been disabled.

Over many years this simple restriction has been a primary motivation for players to participate in Rift, Meteor, and Netherstorm events, where rare and sought after Nether items can be acquired.

When these types of events are no longer common place (such as during a peaceful age), these items become increasingly valuable among the population and are sometimes even held in reverence due to the historic battles that were fought to acquire them.