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1 - SALE POSTPONED "Nessie" Complete skeleton of Elasmosaurus sp…
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Estimate €200,000 - €300,000
Sale commission
Description
SALE POSTPONED "Nessie" Complete skeleton of Elasmosaurus sp. Maastrichtian (between 72 and 66 million years ago), Beni Smir, Khouribga Basin, Morocco Total length approximately 900 cm. Skeleton prepared by palaeontologists at Théropodia in 2026. Provenance: Rock and Mineral Fair, Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines. A full palaeontological report and osteographic diagram illustrating a fossil that is 70–75% complete is available on request. Certificate of export from France. Conclusion of the palaeontological assessment “The skeleton is a composite assembly, combining authentic fossilised bones from the Beni Smir phosphate deposit with modern reconstruction elements (3D printing). The specimen presents an anatomical representation of original elements estimated at between 70 and 75 per cent in terms of visible surface area, which constitutes a particularly high degree of preservation for an elasmosaur from the Maastrichtian phosphate deposits of Morocco. The ‘Nessie’ specimen is a major marine fossil from the Late Cretaceous, remarkable both for its state of preservation and for the quality of its preparation and anatomical integrity. Its degree of completeness, combined with rigorous scientific restoration and a particularly spectacular presentation, makes it a specimen of international museum significance. The specimen as a whole is of genuine aesthetic interest, has high educational value and offers great potential for public display. It also stands as an exceptional testament 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
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About the sale SALE POSTPONED – NESSIE, AN ELASMOSAUR SKELETON
Auction location
Auction time 06/21/2026 at 5:00 PM
Pictures modified on 05/26/2026 at 11:38 AM
Lot description modified on 06/17/2026 at 5:23 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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