Meet the Buyer
The buyer of Apex has been revealed as hedge fund billionaire Ken Griffin, founder and CEO of Citadel. Known for his passion for paleontology, Griffin outbid six other interested parties to secure this extraordinary specimen.
Source: Paul Elledge/Citadel Enterprise Americas LLC
Griffin’s commitment to keeping Apex in the U.S. shows his dedication to sharing such treasures with the public.
Apex's Journey from Discovery to Auction
Apex was discovered between 2022 and 2023 on private land in Moffat County, Colorado, near the aptly named town of Dinosaur.
Source: Jumbuk73/Pixabay
Paleontologist Jason Cooper led the excavation of this remarkable fossil, which measures 11 feet tall and nearly 27 feet long. Apex’s aggressive attack pose on a custom steel armature adds to its dramatic presence.
The Auction Day Frenzy
The auction, held by Sotheby’s, saw seven bidders vying for Apex, with the final bid far surpassing the initial estimate of $4 million to $6 million.
Source: CFI
Cassandra Hatton, Sotheby’s Global Head of Science & Popular Culture, expressed excitement about the sale, noting that Apex “inspired bidders globally” and set a new standard in fossil auctions.
Ken Griffin's Statement on Keeping Apex in the U.S.
Following the purchase, Ken Griffin stated, “Apex was born in America and is going to stay in America!”
Source: Taylor Vick/Unsplash
Griffin intends to loan the specimen to a U.S. institution, ensuring that the public can experience this piece of prehistory.
Griffin's History with Dinosaur Exhibits
This isn’t Griffin’s first foray into the world of dinosaur fossils. In 2017, he donated $16.5 million to the Field Museum in Chicago to support the acquisition of “Sue the T. rex.”
Source: Wikipedia Commons
This historic gift enabled the museum to create a more scientifically accurate and engaging home for one of the world’s most famous dinosaurs.
Apex's Unique Features
Apex stands out not only for its completeness but also for its signs of arthritis, suggesting a long life. This Stegosaurus, approximately 161 million years old, offers a unique glimpse into the life of these ancient creatures.
Source: Trnava Universty/Unsplash
Its well-preserved state and detailed skeleton provide invaluable insights for paleontologists and enthusiasts alike.
Importance of Public Access
Griffin’s commitment to loaning Apex to a public institution is a glowing example of the importance of making such discoveries accessible.
Source: Wikimedia
Public exhibits allow people of all ages to engage with and learn about the prehistoric world, fostering a deeper appreciation for natural history and science.
Role of Sotheby's in Dinosaur Fossil Sales
Sotheby’s has a history of auctioning notable dinosaur fossils. Apex’s sale marks a significant milestone, following other high-profile sales like the T. rex fossils sold in 1997 and 2020, and the Gorgosaurus skeleton sold in 2022.
Source: Wikimedia
Sotheby’s dedication to preserving and showcasing these ancient treasures is evident in their careful handling of such auctions.
Future of Dinosaur Fossil Auctions
Apex’s record-breaking sale sets a new benchmark for future dinosaur fossil auctions. It highlights the growing interest and value placed on these ancient relics.
Source: Wikipedia
As more discoveries are made, the market for such fossils is likely to continue evolving, attracting collectors and institutions alike.
Broader Impact on Paleontology
Griffin’s purchase of Apex has broader implications for the field of paleontology. It shows the importance of funding and support for paleontological research and exhibitions.
Source: JamesDeMers/Pixabay
High-profile sales like this can drive public interest and investment in the field, leading to further discoveries and advancements.
A New Era for Dinosaur Fossils
The sale of Apex marks a new era in the appreciation and valuation of dinosaur fossils.
Source: Markus Spiske/Unsplash
Ken Griffin’s acquisition ensures that this extraordinary Stegosaurus will be shared with the public, inspiring future generations of scientists and enthusiasts.The record-setting Stegosaurus skeleton, dubbed “Apex,” was recently sold at a Sotheby’s auction for a jaw-dropping $44.6 million.