A rare Nanotyrannus skeleton named Jodi sold for $47.3 million in New York. The sale fuels ongoing debates about private fossil ownership.
A rare dinosaur skeleton recently sold at a New York auction for $47.3 million. The fossil belongs to a creature known as Nanotyrannus. Many experts previously mistook this dinosaur for a young Tyrannosaurus rex.
Also, the skeleton carries the nickname Jodi. It stands about 10 feet tall. Sotheby's managed the sale of this unique specimen.
Next, researchers confirmed last year that Nanotyrannus is a distinct genus. This creature lived roughly 67 million years ago. It roamed the earth alongside the larger Tyrannosaurus rex.
Meanwhile, the skeleton includes 191 fossil bones. It also features a nearly complete and well-preserved skull. Sotheby's calls it an excellent piece for any exhibition.
After that, six different bidders competed for the fossil. The intense bidding war lasted for 12 minutes. The buyer of the skeleton remains anonymous.
Furthermore, Jodi is the second-most expensive dinosaur fossil ever sold. Only a T. rex nicknamed Gus sold for a higher price. Experts note that only three such skeletons exist.
Then, rancher Jodi Pierson discovered the bones in Montana. A commercial palaeontologist named Clayton Phipps later excavated the site. He also found the famous Dueling Dinosaurs fossil nearby.
However, the private sale of fossils sparks debate among scientists. Some experts worry that wealthy collectors will hide these items. They believe such important discoveries belong in public museums.
Still, other scientists see a different side. They acknowledge the high cost of excavating these rare items. Some believe these fossils will eventually reach public displays.
Finally, researchers hope the public can still study this discovery. They want future generations to learn from these ancient remains. Everyone waits to see where Jodi will appear next.