NYC Museum Showcases Record-Breaking Stegosaurus Fossil

The American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) in New York City is now home to "Apex," the most expensive dinosaur skeleton ever sold at auction. This remarkably complete Stegosaurus fossil, boasting approximately 80% of its bones, was discovered in Colorado and purchased for a staggering $44.6 million by hedge fund manager Kenneth C. Griffin.

Apex: A Scientific Treasure

Apex, standing at 11.5 feet tall and 27 feet long, is on loan to the AMNH. Its exceptional preservation allows paleontologists to study its growth and learn more about the Stegosaurus species. The museum plans to display the original fossil for four years, after which a cast will take its place.

Dr. Roger Benson, the museum's Macaulay Curator of Paleontology, emphasizes the scientific significance: "As exciting as it is to have this dinosaur on display, it is even more exciting to have the opportunity to study it and make important scientific data available for research." Griffin has also endowed a three-year postdoctoral fellowship dedicated to the study of Apex.

Breaking Auction Records

The $44.6 million price tag surpasses the previous record held by "Stan," a Tyrannosaurus rex sold for $31.8 million in 2020. Unlike Stan, which disappeared from public view for two years after its sale, Apex will be readily accessible for research, demonstrating the importance of responsible fossil ownership.

Further Records

While Apex is the most expensive dinosaur, another recent sale set the record for the longest dinosaur auctioned: a 70-foot-long Apatosaurus sold in France for over $6 million.