Martian Meteorite 70% Larger Than Next Biggest Set For Auction

A 54-pound Martian rock, estimated to be worth between $2 million and $4 million, is set to be auctioned in New York. This meteorite, known as NWA 16788, is the largest piece of Mars ever discovered on Earth, measuring approximately 15 inches by 11 inches by 6 inches. The rock is believed to have been ejected from Mars by a massive asteroid strike and traveled 140 million miles to Earth, where it was found in the Sahara Desert in November 2023. The meteorite is 70% larger than the next largest Martian rock found on Earth and represents nearly 7% of all Martian material currently on the planet. Its unique chemical composition, confirmed by a specialized lab, matches that of Martian meteorites discovered during the Viking space probe in 1976. The rock is an olivine-microgabbroic shergottite, formed from the slow cooling of Martian magma, and has a glassy surface due to the heat it endured upon entering Earth's atmosphere. The meteorite was previously exhibited at the Italian Space Agency in Rome.

The auction, part of a natural history-themed sale, also features a juvenile Ceratosaurus dinosaur skeleton. This 11-foot-long skeleton, estimated to be from the late Jurassic period around 150 million years ago, is expected to fetch between $4 million and $6 million. The skeleton, found in 1996 near Laramie, Wyoming, was assembled from nearly 140 fossil bones and is ready for exhibition. Ceratosaurus dinosaurs were bipedal with short arms, similar in appearance to the Tyrannosaurus rex but smaller, growing up to 25 feet long. The skeleton was acquired last year by Fossilogic, a Utah-based fossil preparation and mounting company.

The auction, part of Geek Week 2025, includes 122 items such as other meteorites, fossils, and gem-quality minerals. The Martian rock and the dinosaur skeleton are the highlights of this event, showcasing rare and valuable specimens from Earth's natural history. The auction represents a unique opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to acquire significant pieces of Martian and prehistoric history.

This event underscores the enduring fascination with extraterrestrial and prehistoric artifacts. The Martian meteorite, with its unique origin and composition, offers a tangible connection to another planet, while the Ceratosaurus skeleton provides a glimpse into Earth's distant past. The high estimated values of these items reflect their rarity and scientific significance, making them highly sought-after by collectors and institutions alike. The auction serves as a platform for the exchange of these extraordinary specimens, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of our universe and its history.