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In a remarkable auction event, billionaire hedge fund manager Ken Griffin made headlines by purchasing a nearly complete Stegosaurus skeleton for a record $45 million at Sotheby’s. This sale has set a new high in the world of fossil auctions, surpassing previous records significantly.
The Stegosaurus Skeleton: Apex
The Stegosaurus skeleton, aptly named "Apex," is one of the most complete and well-preserved specimens ever discovered. Measuring 11 feet tall and 27 feet long, Apex includes 254 of its total 319 fossil bone elements. The skeleton, estimated to be over 150 million years old, was discovered in 2022 by a commercial paleontologist in Colorado's Morrison Formation, an area renowned for its rich deposit of dinosaur fossils (Popular Science) (DNyuz).
Auction Highlights
The auction at Sotheby’s saw intense bidding, with Griffin ultimately winning after 15 minutes of competitive offers. The skeleton's pristine condition, complete with fossilized skin impressions and throat armor, made it a coveted item. Apex's sale price of $45 million far exceeded expectations and previous records, including the $31.8 million sale of a T. rex named "Stan" in 2020 (Popular Science) (DNyuz).
Griffin's Passion for Collectibles
Ken Griffin, founder and CEO of Citadel, is no stranger to high-value purchases. His collection includes notable works of art and historical documents. In 2021, he purchased a first-edition copy of the U.S. Constitution for $43.2 million and has also acquired masterpieces by Jean-Michel Basquiat and Jackson Pollock. Griffin’s interest in fossils is part of his broader passion for rare and historically significant items (Homepage).
Future Plans for Apex
Griffin intends to loan Apex to a U.S. institution, ensuring that the remarkable fossil remains accessible to the public and continues to contribute to scientific and educational efforts. This move aligns with his history of supporting museums and public exhibitions, such as his significant donation to Chicago's Field Museum to enhance its dinosaur display (DNyuz) (Homepage).
Conclusion
Ken Griffin's acquisition of the Apex Stegosaurus skeleton for a record $45 million at Sotheby’s underscores the growing interest and investment in paleontological artifacts. This purchase not only highlights the significant value of well-preserved fossils but also Griffin’s commitment to preserving and sharing historical treasures with the public.
For more details on this fascinating acquisition, you can read the full stories on Popular Science and The Asset Observer.
