Billionaire hedge fund manager Ken Griffin, known for his penchant for eye-popping purchases, has added another feather to his cap by acquiring a Stegosaurus skeleton for a whopping $44.6 million. This acquisition has not only broken records in the fossil world but has also stirred significant interest and controversy.
The Stegosaurus, affectionately named "Apex," dates back to the late Jurassic period, making it over 150 million years old. Unearthed by commercial paleontologist Jason Cooper in Moffat County, Colorado, Apex is one of the most complete Stegosaurus skeletons ever found. Standing 11 feet tall and stretching nearly 27 feet long, this ancient behemoth is composed of 254 fossilized bones, showcasing delicate impressions of its skin and armor that once protected its throat.
The scene at Sotheby’s auction house in New York City was electric as Apex went under the hammer. Pre-auction estimates suggested a sale price between $4 million and $6 million. However, Griffin's winning bid of $44.6 million shattered all expectations, making Apex the most valuable fossil ever sold at auction. For comparison, the previous record was held by a Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton named "Stan," which fetched $31.8 million.
Griffin's fervor for rare collectibles isn't new. His previous acquisitions include a $43.2 million first-edition copy of the U.S. Constitution, acquired after an intense bidding war with a group of cryptocurrency enthusiasts, and a $238 million New York City penthouse, setting the record for the most expensive home sold in the United States. Apex, however, marks his significant foray into the realm of paleontology.
Speaking after the auction, Griffin expressed his intention to lend Apex to an American institution. "Apex was born in America and is going to stay in America," Griffin declared, reflecting his desire to make the fossil accessible to the public. This isn't his first instance of contributing to public displays; he previously donated $16.5 million to Chicago’s Field Museum to fund exhibits of notable dinosaur skeletons, including Maximo, the largest titanosaur ever discovered.
The discovery of Apex is a testament to the rich paleontological heritage of Colorado’s Morrison Formation, a site renowned for its abundance of dinosaur fossils. Unlike many dinosaur fossils that show signs of combat or scavenging, Apex's skeleton is remarkably well-preserved, with no indications of such activity. This rarity adds to its scientific and monetary value.
Griffin’s contributions extend beyond paleontology. His philanthropic efforts span various cultural and educational domains. Among his numerous donations, Griffin's $2.2 billion charitable contributions have benefitted organizations and institutions across the country, reinforcing his reputation as a significant benefactor.
While Griffin's purchase of Apex has drawn admiration, it also reignites debates about the ethics of private fossil ownership. Critics argue that such valuable specimens should reside in public institutions from the outset, ensuring broader access for research and education. Proponents, however, note that private collectors like Griffin often play pivotal roles in funding and supporting the preservation and exhibition of these historical treasures.
Griffin’s acquisition also underscores a broader trend. The auction market for rare fossils and historical artifacts has seen a surge in recent years. For instance, Sotheby’s sold a Gorgosaurus skeleton for up to $8 million in 2022, and Bob Ross’s first artwork from "The Joy of Painting" was listed for $9.8 million last September. High-profile sales like these highlight both the escalating market value of such items and the growing public fascination with them.
As museums and collectors vie for these rare treasures, Griffin’s purchase of Apex has catapulted the conversation around private ownership of significant historical artifacts back into the spotlight. The scientific community and the general public alike will be watching keenly to see where Apex ultimately finds its temporary home and how it will be utilized to enrich our understanding of the distant past.
Reflecting on Griffin’s latest acquisition, one can't help but marvel at the intersection of wealth, history, and science. Apex's journey from the remote hills of Colorado to the polished halls of Sotheby’s, and eventually to a public institution, encapsulates a unique narrative of discovery, legacy, and generosity. As Griffin himself aptly put it, "Apex was born in America and is going to stay in America." His words resonate as a promise that this ancient creature will continue to intrigue and educate for generations to come.
