NYC Museum Unveils $45 Million Apex Stegosaurus: A Scientific Treasure

The American Museum of Natural History in New York City is showcasing Apex, a remarkably complete stegosaurus fossil purchased for a record-breaking $45 million by billionaire Ken Griffin. This makes it the most expensive dinosaur fossil ever sold.

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Apex: A Scientific Goldmine

Standing at 3.3 meters tall and 8.2 meters long, Apex boasts 80% of its 320 bones preserved, an extraordinary feat for a 150-million-year-old creature. Its completeness and estimated old age at death provide invaluable insights into stegosaurus metabolism and bone growth. Scientists will conduct detailed analyses, including CT scans of the skull and bone samples, to unlock its scientific secrets.

"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." - Roger Benson, Curator of Fossil Amphibians, Reptiles, Birds, and Plants

Initially displayed in the museum's atrium, Apex will later move to the permanent fossil halls.

Breaking Records

Griffin's purchase surpasses the previous record of $31.8 million paid for a Tyrannosaurus rex fossil in 2020. Both fossils, while privately acquired, will be made available for public viewing, showcasing the importance of collaboration between private collectors and scientific institutions. The T.rex, known as "Stan," is slated for display in Abu Dhabi in 2025.

The Discovery

Commercial paleontologist Jason Cooper unearthed Apex on his land near Dinosaur, Colorado.