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"Nessie Complete skeleton of Elasmosaurus sp.
See original version (French)
"Nessie Complete skeleton of Elasmosaurus sp.
See original version (French)
Estimate €200,000 - €300,000
Voluntary lot
Description
"Nessie
Complete skeleton of Elasmosaurus sp.
Maastrichtian (between 72 and 66 million years ago), Beni Smir, Khouribga Basin, Morocco
Total length approx. 900 cm.
Skeleton prepared by Théropodia palaeontologists in 2026.
Provenance: Stones and Minerals Fair, Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines.
Full palaeontological report and osteograph available on request.
Conclusion of the palaeontological expertise
"The skeleton is a composite assemblage, combining authentic fossil bones from the Beni Smir phosphate deposit and elements of modern reconstruction (3D printing).
The specimen shows an anatomical representation of original elements estimated at between 70 and 75% in terms of visible surface area equivalence, which is a particularly high degree of conservation for an elasmosaur from the Moroccan Maastrichtian phosphates.
The "Nessie" specimen is a major marine fossil from the Terminal Cretaceous, remarkable for its state of preservation, the quality of its preparation and its anatomical coherence. Its degree of completeness, combined with rigorous scientific restoration and a particularly spectacular presentation, make it a piece of international museum importance.
The ensemble is of real aesthetic interest, has a high educational value and has great potential for public display. It also represents exceptional testimony to the diversity of the large marine reptiles that dominated the oceans shortly before the biological crisis at the end of the Cretaceous period."
Dr Frédéric Lacombat, 10 May 2026
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
Pictures modified on 05/26/2026 at 11:38 AM
Lot description modified on 05/26/2026 at 11:39 AM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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