Rare Nanotyrannus skeleton fetches $47.3 million at New York auction

The Guardian reported that a rare Nanotyrannus skeleton sold for $47.3 million at a New York auction, making it the second most valuable dinosaur ever sold at auction, according to Sotheby’s. The fossil, named “Jodi” after the discoverer in 2019, attracted six bidders who competed online and by phone. Sotheby’s said the sale was decided after a twelve‑minute bidding battle that ended with the winning bid placed over the phone. The auction house’s statement highlighted the high price as evidence of the market’s appetite for exceptional prehistoric specimens. The buyer’s identity was not disclosed.

The transaction places the Nanotyrannus among the world’s most expensive fossils, underscoring the growing financial value assigned to rare paleontological finds.

Why it matters

The sale shows how rare dinosaur fossils are becoming high‑value assets, reflecting strong collector demand and influencing future fossil markets.

Key details

Location

United States · Americas

Reported by

The Guardian

First reported

28 Oct 2026, 03:10 IST

Key names

York, Rare Nanotyrannus, Sotheby, Tyrannosaurus

Section

Science

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:

• The GuardianRare Nanotyrannus skeleton sells for $47.3m at New York auction 28 Oct, 03:10

Read the full story at The Guardian ↗

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