A Rare Martian Meteorite and a Dinosaur Skeleton to Be Auctioned
A rare 54-pound Martian meteorite is set to be auctioned at Sotheby’s in New York, with an estimated value ranging from $2 million to $4 million. This meteorite, known as NWA 16788, is the largest piece of Mars ever discovered on Earth. Scientists believe it was ejected from the Martian surface due to a massive asteroid impact and eventually landed in the Sahara Desert.
Discovered in Niger in November 2023, this meteorite has traveled an astonishing distance of 140 million miles before reaching Earth. According to Sotheby’s, the rock is nearly 70% larger than any other known Martian meteorite and accounts for almost 7% of all Mars material found on Earth. Measuring 15 by 11 by 6 inches, its size and history make it a remarkable scientific treasure.
Cassandra Hatton, Vice Chairman for Science and Natural History at Sotheby’s, confirmed that the meteorite’s Martian origin was verified through laboratory testing. A small sample was analyzed and matched the chemical composition of rocks studied during NASA’s Viking mission in 1976. The meteorite is classified as an “olivine-microgabbroic shergottite,” which means it was formed from slowly cooled Martian magma.
In addition to the Martian meteorite, the auction also features a juvenile Ceratosaurus skeleton valued between $4 million and $6 million. Discovered in Wyoming in 1996, the dinosaur skeleton was reconstructed using 140 real bones and some sculpted parts. This bipedal predator lived approximately 150 million years ago and shares several characteristics with the well-known Tyrannosaurus rex.
The meteorite and the Ceratosaurus are part of Sotheby’s Geek Week 2025, an event that showcases 122 items, including fossils, meteorites, and rare minerals. These unique pieces highlight the intersection of natural history and modern science, attracting collectors from around the world.
Previously displayed at the Italian Space in Rome, the meteorite remains in private ownership. Its sale is expected to generate significant interest among space enthusiasts, scientists, and high-end collectors who want to own a literal piece of another planet.
Key Highlights of the Auction
- Martian Meteorite (NWA 16788):
- Weight: 54 pounds
- Estimated Value: $2 million to $4 million
- Size: 15 by 11 by 6 inches
- Origin: Verified through lab testing, matching NASA’s Viking mission data
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Classification: Olivine-microgabbroic shergottite
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Ceratosaurus Skeleton:
- Estimated Value: $4 million to $6 million
- Discovery: Wyoming, 1996
- Reconstruction: 140 real bones and some sculpted elements
- Age: Approximately 150 million years old
The Significance of the Items
The Martian meteorite represents a rare opportunity for collectors and researchers to study a piece of another planet. Its size and historical significance make it one of the most valuable meteorites ever offered for sale. Meanwhile, the Ceratosaurus skeleton provides insight into prehistoric life and demonstrates the artistry involved in fossil reconstruction.
Both items are part of a broader trend in the collecting world, where unique scientific artifacts are increasingly sought after. Their presence at Sotheby’s highlights the growing intersection between science, history, and high-value collectibles.
As the auction approaches, anticipation is building among those interested in space exploration, paleontology, and rare natural specimens. The sale of these items could set new records and further fuel the fascination with the mysteries of our universe.
