A stegosaurus skeleton, estimated to be 150 million years old, has shattered previous records by selling for an astounding $44.6 million at a Sotheby’s auction. This sale dethrones the previous record-holder, a T. rex skeleton named Stan, which fetched nearly $32 million four years ago.
The intense bidding war, which lasted 15 minutes, saw participation from seven bidders around the globe via phone. The winning bid came from hedge fund billionaire Ken Griffin. Sotheby’s has described the stegosaurus as the most complete and best-preserved specimen of its size ever discovered.
Griffin, known for his extensive art and historical artifact collection, reportedly plans to donate the stegosaurus to a museum, ensuring public access to this remarkable piece of natural history. The auction house emphasized the rarity and scientific significance of the skeleton, contributing to its record-breaking price.
The sale highlights a growing interest in paleontological treasures among private collectors and institutions. As the most expensive fossil ever sold, the stegosaurus sets a new benchmark in the market for dinosaur skeletons and other prehistoric artifacts.
