One of the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex fossils ever discovered in South Dakota is headed to auction, where it could fetch more than $30 million.
The fossil, nicknamed “Gus,” was unearthed in Harding County’s Hell Creek Formation and is being auctioned by Sotheby’s. Bidding opens Tuesday with a starting bid of $19 million. If it reaches the high estimate, Gus would rank among the most expensive dinosaur fossils ever sold.
The mounted skeleton stretches about 38 feet long, stands 12½ feet tall and is considered one of the largest T. rex specimens ever found. Researchers say it is about 61% complete by bone count, including an exceptionally well-preserved skull, rare belly ribs and a complete pelvis.
Scientists also found evidence the dinosaur survived multiple injuries during its lifetime, including healed fractures and bite marks that may have come from another tyrannosaur.
Mounted in a lifelike hunting pose, Gus includes documentation verifying its authenticity and legal ownership.
– with Agencies inputs --
