Say from 25-1300MHz
Given the cost of these is not huge, what is the best antenna available?
In terms of:
Frequency coverage
Gain
Build quality
Etc
So you want a very wide band antenna "Say from 25-1300MHz". Get any old discone with the low-band whip on the top. You won't have any gain and for build quality, so long as you get one with solid elements (not those like the RS model that uses tubular elements that are loosely crimped to the ends that screw into the base) they're all pretty much about the same. You could also get a ST2, but then you'll have a modified TV antenna that you'll need to strengthen to make it last.
Reduce your frequency range to what you actually listen to and most likely you'll find much better answers that fit your needs. For example, if you only listen to VHF-Hi and/or UHF there are many great antennas available that are made for the ham market. If you only listen to the 800 MHz band (and by extension, the 700 and 900 MHz frequencies) there are also great antennas available there.
This is kinda like asking "What's the best truck on the market?" without stating what you want out of the truck. A great Baha 1000 racing truck will do very poorly hauling freight cross country and that 18 wheeler may haul lots of stuff, but may not be of much use if you just want something to visit the mall.