A Tyrannosaurus rex fossil, known as one of the largest and most complete specimens, sold for $50.1 million. This sale set a new record for the most expensive dinosaur bones ever auctioned. The fossil, nicknamed ‘Gus,’ surpassed the nearly $45 million paid for a stegosaurus previously sold by Sotheby’s. Before Gus, the record was held by a T. rex named ‘Stan,’ which sold for about $32 million in 2020.
Sotheby’s Vice Chair, Cassandra Hatton, emphasized the high quality of Gus. She noted the careful excavation, documentation, and preparation that contributed to the fossil’s market value.
About ‘Gus’
Gus stands at approximately 12.5 feet tall and 38 feet long. The specimen is about 63% complete and features a well-preserved skull with powerful teeth. Notable parts include two well-represented feet and several rare bones like the wishbone.
The fossil was discovered in 2021 on a ranch in South Dakota, named after owner Gary Licking. The buyer, who remains anonymous, outbid six others in a ten-minute bidding session.
Scientific Significance
The Society of Vertebrate Paleontology advocates for significant fossils, like Gus, to be displayed publicly. They stress the importance of such fossils for scientific discovery and research.
Kristina Curry Rogers, a society spokesperson, highlighted how future research on fossils can drive advances in paleontology. She pointed out that many discoveries have occurred after fossils have been preserved in museums.
Examples include the stegosaurus, ‘Apex,’ on loan to the American Museum of Natural History, and ‘Sue,’ a T. rex at the Field Museum. ‘Stan’ is displayed at the Natural History Museum in Abu Dhabi.
Tyrannosaurus Rex in History and Culture
The Tyrannosaurus rex was a dominant predator during the late Cretaceous period in what is now western North America. With its powerful jaw and small arms, it is a well-known dinosaur, appearing in shows like Barney and the ‘Jurassic Park’ movies.
This region once had warm climates and rich ecosystems, providing an ideal environment for T. rex and its prey, like triceratops, to thrive.
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