Dinosaur Fossils – a Guide to Collecting
2024 was a big year for dinosaur fossils when the fossilised bones of a stegosaurus sold for a record $44.6m. But is the market for dinosaurs all it’s cracked up to be? Antique Collecting reports
The Record-Breaking Dinosaur Fossil Sales of 2024
In 2024, the world of dinosaur fossil collecting reached new heights with the record-breaking sale of a Stegosaurus fossil named Apex. This 150-million-year-old specimen fetched a staggering $44.6 million (£34 million), making it the most expensive dinosaur fossil ever sold. Standing at 11.5 feet tall and measuring 27 feet in length, Apex was discovered in Colorado, USA, by a paleontologist in 2022. The fossil was later acquired by billionaire Kenneth C. Griffin, the CEO of Citadel, who expressed his pride in ensuring that Apex would remain in the United States.
The sale of Apex was particularly noteworthy as it exceeded expectations by a wide margin. Originally estimated to sell for around $7.4 million, it is now part of a growing trend in the market for fossilized dinosaur bones, where high-profile specimens are increasingly owned by private collectors rather than public institutions.
The Rise of Private Dinosaur Collectors
The market for fossilized dinosaur bones has evolved significantly in recent years. In the past, major fossil discoveries were often sold to natural history museums, where they could be studied and displayed for public benefit. However, since the 2020 auction of the T-Rex “Stan” for $31.8 million at Christie’s, the market has shifted towards private ownership. Wealthy collectors, including Hollywood actors and tech moguls, now dominate the scene.
Notably, fossils like Sue, another T-Rex discovered in South Dakota, were initially purchased by the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago in the 1990s with financial support from McDonald’s and Walt Disney World. Today, a large percentage of dinosaur fossils are purchased by private collectors, many of whom are not necessarily interested in scientific research but are drawn to the rarity and prestige of owning such ancient treasures.
However, the growing trend of private ownership has raised concerns among scientists, as many of these fossils are kept out of public view, potentially hindering ongoing research. Despite this, some fossils, like Apex, have been displayed at institutions such as the American Museum of Natural History, providing valuable opportunities for paleontologists to study them.
The Impact of Popular Culture on the Dinosaur Fossil Market
The surge in dinosaur fossil sales can be partly attributed to the influence of popular culture, particularly the success of the Jurassic Park franchise. The 1993 film, based on Michael Crichton’s novel, brought dinosaurs to the forefront of public consciousness and increased demand for fossilized remains. Prior to the film, the market was largely driven by Japan’s interest in acquiring American fossils for its growing network of natural history museums. However, after Japan’s economic bubble burst in the early 1990s, the market experienced a lull.
Following the release of Jurassic Park, the market saw renewed interest, especially with the auctioning of notable fossils like Sue. As interest in dinosaurs grew, collectors increasingly sought out iconic species such as the Tyrannosaurus Rex and Velociraptor, both of which gained immense popularity thanks to the film’s portrayal of these creatures.
The Pricing and Rarity of Dinosaur Fossils
Fossil prices vary widely depending on the species, condition, and rarity of the specimen. Large carnivorous dinosaurs like the T-Rex and Velociraptor tend to command the highest prices, with complete or near-complete skeletons often fetching millions of dollars at auction. In contrast, herbivorous dinosaurs such as the Triceratops typically sell for lower prices due to their relatively less dramatic appeal.
A well-preserved Triceratops vertebra, for example, might sell for around £2,000, while smaller individual bones can be acquired for a few hundred dollars. Fossils from smaller creatures, such as ammonites and ichthyosaurs, are also popular with collectors, and these can often be found for less than £1,000.
The Legalities and Challenges of Collecting Dinosaur Fossils
The market for dinosaur fossils is not without its complications. Laws regarding the export and trade of fossilized remains are becoming more stringent, particularly concerning fossils that may have been illegally obtained. In the case of the Tyrannosaurus bataar skull that actor Nicolas Cage purchased in 2007, authorities discovered that it had been illegally smuggled out of Mongolia. Cage ultimately had to return the skull to its rightful country.
As the legal landscape for fossil trade evolves, collectors must be diligent about verifying the provenance and legality of fossils before making a purchase. Some fossils that were legally imported years ago may now face restrictions due to changing trade regulations.
Fossil Hunting in the UK: A More Accessible Alternative
For those interested in collecting smaller fossils or learning more about paleontology without breaking the bank, there are plenty of opportunities to find homegrown fossils in the UK. The Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Devon and Dorset, is a prime location for fossil hunting. This 9.5-mile stretch of coastline is famous for yielding fossils from the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods, making it one of the few places in the world where you can find fossils from three different geological periods.
Lyme Regis and Charmouth, in particular, are well-known for fossil hunting, and local museums offer guided walks led by expert geologists. Fossils commonly found in the area include ammonites, ichthyosaurs, dinosaur footprints, and seashells. Some fossil hunting sites on the Jurassic Coast may require a permit, so it’s important to check local regulations before embarking on a hunt.
In addition to the Jurassic Coast, the Yorkshire coast near Whitby is another prime location for fossil enthusiasts.
(formerly known as a brontosaurus) skeleton sold in Paris, for $6.3m, setting a record for
the highest selling dinosaur at auction in France, image courtesy of Collin du Bocage and Barbarossa, credit Antoine Pascal
The Future of Dinosaur Fossil Collecting
In December 2024, a trio of prehistoric skeletons—two Allosaurus and one Stegosaurus—were sold for a combined total of £12.4 million at Christie’s London. These fossils were discovered in Carbon County, Wyoming, and are believed to have roamed the semi-arid savannah of western America around 150 million years ago. The sale underscores the continued demand for dinosaur fossils and highlights the importance of these ancient creatures in both scientific study and private collections.
As the market for dinosaur fossils continues to evolve, collectors and paleontologists alike must navigate the fine line between preserving scientific knowledge and accommodating the growing demand for private ownership. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply intrigued by the world of paleontology, the story of these ancient giants continues to captivate audiences around the globe.
The market for dinosaur fossils – an overview
The world of dinosaur fossil collecting is as dynamic as it is intriguing, with new discoveries constantly reshaping our understanding of the past. Whether you’re drawn to the excitement of high-stakes auctions or the thrill of finding fossils along the British coastline, there’s something for everyone in the world of prehistoric treasures. As the market for these ancient relics continues to grow, one thing is certain: the fascination with dinosaurs is far from extinct.