An auction in New Brunswick is featuring a rare collection of ancient megalodon shark teeth that have caught the attention of fossil enthusiasts and collectors. Curator Sarah Jones from Jones auction house in Saint John revealed that the teeth are receiving significant bids, some surpassing the initial price. The megalodon is an extinct species of ancient shark known for its massive size, with some specimens measuring between 40 to 60 feet long. The teeth being auctioned vary in size from three inches to over six inches and come from a New Brunswick collector who has spent years assembling one of Canada’s largest private collections of megalodon teeth.
Although megalodon teeth are relatively common due to the shark’s habit of losing teeth, the quality and size of the specimens in this collection make them highly sought after. Some of the teeth in the auction have been sourced directly from divers in North Carolina, adding to their authenticity. Many of the teeth showcase visible serrations and still have barnacles and coral attached, enhancing their unique appeal. Some teeth have been polished and are ready for display, resembling artwork. Jones highlighted the individual preferences of collectors in choosing teeth based on their aesthetic appeal, making them more than just fossils.
The collection of megalodon teeth up for auction is the first of its kind to be included in the house’s traditional auctions of artwork and luxury items. Jones mentioned the infectious enthusiasm of the collector for such specimens and the wealth of knowledge he shared with them. Bidding for the teeth is open until 6 p.m. on March 30, and interested parties can view the collection in person at the auction house in uptown Saint John or online. The unique nature of these ancient shark teeth has led to a competitive bidding process, with some teeth already fetching prices exceeding $1,000.
The sheer size and rarity of megalodon teeth make them prized possessions for fossil enthusiasts and collectors alike. The teeth on auction range in size from smaller three-inch specimens to larger teeth measuring over six inches, showcasing the massive dimensions of these ancient creatures. The presence of barnacles and coral on some teeth adds to their authenticity and appeal, providing a glimpse into the underwater world where these ancient sharks once roamed. Jones described the teeth as resembling artwork, depending on the preferences of individual collectors and their intended display.
The interest in the megalodon teeth auction in New Brunswick reflects a growing fascination with ancient fossils and natural history among collectors worldwide. With the availability of online bidding, enthusiasts from different locations can participate in the auction, driving up the prices of these rare specimens. The inclusion of natural specimens like megalodon teeth in traditional art auctions highlights the diverse interests of collectors and the unique appeal of such ancient artifacts. The competitive atmosphere surrounding the auction indicates a strong demand for rare and well-preserved fossils like the megalodon teeth in this collection, emphasizing their significance in the world of paleontology and natural history enthusiasts.
