A rare Nanotyrannus skeleton known as "Jodi" is set for auction in New York with a price tag of several million dollars.
A unique dinosaur skeleton is heading to auction in New York. Experts recently identified the creature as a Nanotyrannus. It was once mistaken for a young Tyrannosaurus rex.
Next, the auction house Sotheby's will manage the sale. The skeleton carries a starting price of roughly $6 million. Experts believe it could sell for as much as $9 million.
Also, the specimen goes by the nickname "Jodi." It stands about 10 feet tall. The skeleton features nearly 200 fossil pieces and a nearly complete skull.
Meanwhile, researchers only confirmed the Nanotyrannus as a separate genus last October. This makes the sale very significant for science. It is one of only three such skeletons known to experts.
Then, the history of the fossil began in Montana. A rancher named Jodi Pierson discovered the bones on her land. A commercial expert later excavated the site.
However, the sale causes tension in the scientific community. Some experts worry about private ownership of ancient fossils. They want these items displayed in public museums.
Additionally, Professor Steve Brusatte expressed concern about the trend. He fears rare bones might disappear into private vaults. He argues that the public should have access to such important history.
Still, other experts see a different side to the issue. They note that excavating fossils requires immense effort and funding. Some believe these private sales often lead to public exhibits eventually.
After that, the debate continues over the future of fossil collecting. Scientists hope that researchers can still study these rare finds. They want to ensure future generations can learn from these discoveries.
Finally, the auction highlights the growing value of dinosaur remains. Collectors continue to show high interest in these prehistoric treasures. The world waits to see who will purchase this rare piece of history.