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Rare T. rex Fossil 'Gus' Set for Auction Amid Controversy Over Ownership

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A newly discovered T. rex skeleton, named Gus in honor of late rancher Gary Licking, is set to be auctioned at Sotheby’s in New York City. Measuring 38 feet long and 12.5 feet tall, Gus is one of the most complete T. rex fossils found, comprising about 61% of its bones. However, its sale raises concerns among paleontologists about the implications of private ownership on scientific research and public access to such specimens. Experts warn that if Gus is sold to a private collector, it may never be available for further scientific study or public display, highlighting the ongoing debate about fossil auctions and their impact on paleontology.

Key Details: • Auction date: Tuesday at Sotheby’s in New York City. • Gus measures 38 feet in length and 12.5 feet in height. • The fossil is approximately 61% complete by bone count. • Concerns about the loss of scientific access if sold to a private owner.

science auction fossils paleontology t-rex

People & Organizations

New York CityStuart SumidaSociety of Vertebrate PaleontologyGary LickingThomas HeitkampHell Creek FormationTheropoda Expeditions

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