Rare Dinosaur Fossils Fetch £12.4 Million at Auction

A remarkable auction at Christie's in London saw three dinosaur fossils, including two Allosaurus and one Stegosaurus, sell for a total of £12.4 million ($15.7 million). These fossils, dating back approximately 150 million years and excavated from Carbon County, Wyoming, were meticulously reconstructed before their sale. James Hyslop, head of Science and Natural History at Christie's, expressed the significance of these ancient specimens, highlighting their ability to offer insights into the Earth's prehistoric past. The adult Allosaurus was particularly notable for its size and predator status, while the Stegosaurus was recognized for its distinctive armoured plates. The auction not only exceeded expectations but also raised discussions about the accessibility of fossils in private collections, with Hyslop noting the intent of many collectors to share their acquisitions. Overall, the sale underscores the continued fascination with dinosaur fossils and their impact on natural history.