Fossils Are Scientific Evidence and Shouldn't Be Auctioned for Millions to Private Buyers, Say Paleontologists

Fossils are scientific evidence and shouldn't be auctioned for millions to private buyers, say paleontologists

Last year, a Stegosaurus nicknamed Apex sold at auction for US $40.5 million. A juvenile Ceratosaurus fetched US $30.5 million just last month.

Fossils are scientific evidence, and shouldn’t be auctioned for millions to private buyers

Dinosaur fossils are sold for millions to private collectors. These fossils are scientific evidence, and need to be accessible for research and public education.

Science versus ownership: The true value of fossils - Rationale Magazine

Last year, a Stegosaurus nicknamed 'Apex' sold at auction for US$40.5 million. A juvenile Ceratosaurus fetched US$30.5 million just last month. Supporters of these sales argue that they’re harmless, or even good for science. Others compare fossils to art objects, praising their beauty or historical charm. As paleontologists, we say plainly: these views could not be more misguided. Fossils are