Sotheby's auction for a 67-million-year-old T. rex skeleton, named Gus, raises concerns about private fossil ownership hindering scientific research. Gus is expected to sell for as much as $30 million, reflecting the growing trend of private collectors at auction.
Sotheby's has initiated live bidding for various fossil specimens, culminating in the auction of a rare 67-million-year-old T. rex skeleton named Gus. The auction raises questions about the impact of wealthy private collectors on the availability of significant fossils for scientific study.
Gus is being presented as one of the most complete T. rex skeletons ever found, consisting of 183 fossil bones, or about 61% of its total bone count. This completeness adds to its scientific value, making it a significant find for paleontological study.
The rising trend of private collectors purchasing valuable fossils at auction leads to concerns that these historically significant specimens may be permanently removed from scientific research. Paleontologists have noted that as auction houses promote these sales, they contribute to the hype surrounding fossil ownership, often prioritizing profitability over accessibility for research.
This auction follows Sotheby's historical sale of 'Sue' in 1997, the most complete T. rex skeleton at the time, which sold for approximately $8.4 million. The increasing values and visibility of these specimens can redefine how fossils are perceived and valued, similar to art and luxury goods.
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Sotheby's auction for a 67-million-year-old T. rex skeleton, named Gus, raises concerns about private fossil ownership hindering scientific research. Gus is expected to sell for as much as $30 million, reflecting the growing trend of private collectors at auction.