Lot 566

Mosasaur Vertebrae Fossil, Articulated Spine Section, Late Cretaceous

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Lot 566
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Mosasaur Vertebrae Fossil, Articulated Spine Section, Late Cretaceous
Mosasaur Vertebrae Fossil, Articulated Spine Section, Late Cretaceous
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Mosasaur Vertebrae Fossil, Articulated Spine Section, Late Cretaceous

Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000

Starting Bid: $900

(0 Bids)
by Artemis Fine Arts
July 30, 2026 8:00 AM MDT
Live Auction
686 S. Taylor Avenue
Suite 108
Louisville, CO, US 80027

Prehistoric Marine, Mosasaur, Late Cretaceous period, ca. 70 to 66 million years ago. A fossilized vertebral series capturing a section of a mosasaur spine preserved within its original sedimentary matrix. The specimen is presented in two adjoining segments, each retaining multiple articulated vertebrae, with rounded centra and projecting processes emerging in relief from the surrounding stone. The bone surfaces display a pale, mineralized tone that contrasts with the sandy matrix. Individual elements vary in preservation, with some exhibiting more pronounced articulation, while others are partially embedded. Size of larger piece: 11.1" L x 5.6" W x 3" H (28.2 cm x 14.2 cm x 7.6 cm); together: 19.3" L x 6.5" W x 3.5" H (49 cm x 16.5 cm x 8.9 cm)

Mosasaur vertebrae are distinguished by their spool-shaped centra and robust construction, adapted to support powerful lateral movement through water. These marine reptiles, among the dominant predators of the Late Cretaceous seas, relied on strong, undulating bodies to pursue fish, ammonites, and other marine life. The preserved alignment seen here offers insight into that locomotion, hinting at the fluid, serpentine motion that once propelled the animal through prehistoric oceans.

Retained in matrix, the fossil emphasizes both the skeletal structure and the geological context of its discovery, presenting not only the remains of the animal but also a fragment of the ancient seabed in which it was entombed. The division into two sections likely reflects either natural fracturing or careful extraction, allowing for a more complete view of the vertebral sequence. This specimen serves as a tangible record of Cretaceous marine life, combining scientific interest with strong visual presence, ideal for both study and display.

Provenance: private Colorado, USA collection

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Item # 197995

  • Condition: Split into two pieces. Professionally presented in matrix. Rich earthen deposits and encrustations throughout.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $749 $25
$750 $1,499 $50
$1,500 $2,999 $100
$3,000 $7,499 $250
$7,500 $14,999 $500
$15,000 $29,999 $1,000
$30,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000