Chasing Dinosaur Dreams: The Record-Breaking Sale of Apex the Stegosaurus
This week, a record-setting sale of a Stegosaurus fossil found in Colorado has sparked significant excitement. The 150 million-year-old fossil was discovered in Western Colorado near a town aptly named Dinosaur. This fossil is considered the largest and most complete specimen of a Stegosaurus ever recovered.
Named Apex, the dinosaur stands 11 feet tall and 20 feet long. It is believed that Apex lived to an advanced age, showing signs of arthritis, with no indications of enduring any form of combat. Additionally, there is no evidence of scavenging by other animals after Apex’s death.
The Most Complete Stegosaurus Ever Recovered
One of the most fascinating aspects of this discovery is the near-completeness of the specimen. Out of 319 fossil bones, 245 were recovered. This remarkable find was classified as a monumental item at Sotheby’s Auction, with an initial estimate of $4-6 million. However, Apex the Stegosaurus sold for ten times that amount, fetching a record-breaking $44.6 million, making it the most valuable fossil ever sold at an auction.
Watch the Bidding Battle for Apex the Stegosaurus
You can see the thrilling video of the bidding battle for Apex below. It’s incredible to witness the excitement and high stakes of such a historic auction.
Dig Deeper into the Discovery
For those who want to explore the story of Apex further, a documentary delves into the fascinating details of the Stegosaurus fossil’s discovery in Colorado. It’s a must-watch for any dinosaur enthusiast or budding paleontologist.
The discovery and sale of Apex the Stegosaurus highlight the potential for incredible finds waiting to be unearthed. This landmark event in paleontology reminds us of the ongoing wonders that lie hidden beneath the surface, awaiting discovery.
