Record-Breaking T. rex Fossil Sells for Over $50 Million at Auction

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A Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton known as 'Gus' has set a new auction record, selling for $50.13 million at Sotheby’s in New York. This fossil, approximately 67 million years old, was discovered in South Dakota and is notable for its size, measuring 11.6 meters long and 3.8 meters tall. The previous record for a fossil sale was held by a stegosaurus sold for $44.6 million in 2024. Paleontologists express concern over the sale, as privately owned fossils limit scientific research and accessibility. The identity of the buyer remains unknown, raising questions about the future of this remarkable specimen.
Key Details: • Gus sold for $50.13 million on Tuesday at Sotheby’s. • The fossil is 67 million years old and was found in South Dakota. • It includes 183 bone elements, representing 61% of its original structure. • The previous auction record was held by a stegosaurus sold for $44.6 million. • Concerns are raised about the impact of private ownership on scientific research.