T. rex could become most expensive fossil ever - but it's a problem for scientists
Summary
A nearly complete Tyrannosaurus rex fossil named Gus is going up for auction with a pre-sale value of $30 million, possibly becoming the most expensive dinosaur fossil ever sold. This raises questions about whether important fossils should belong to museums for scientific study or be sold to private collectors.Key Facts
- Gus, a T. rex fossil found in South Dakota, is one of the most complete specimens ever discovered.
- Gus is named after Gary "Gus" Licking, the late cattle rancher who owned the land where the fossil was found.
- The excavation took three years, and preparing the fossil took an additional three years in the lab.
- Gus is valued at $30 million pre-sale, with a starting bid of $19 million at Sotheby’s auction.
- The current auction record for a dinosaur fossil is $44.6 million for a Stegosaurus sold in 2024.
- Museums often cannot afford to buy such expensive fossils, limiting their access for research.
- Fossil hunting is dangerous and requires months of fieldwork in tough conditions.
- There is ongoing debate about whether important fossils belong in museums or can be sold to private buyers.
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