Skeleton of a triceratops that lived 66 million years ago up for a record price

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The largest triceratops skeleton in the world, known as Big John, was sold for 6.6 million euros ($ 7.7 million) at an auction in Paris, France, on Thursday.

The huge skeleton, estimated to be 66 million years old, was discovered in South Dakota in 2014. The triceratops is known for the three horns on its head.

Big John, nicknamed after the owner of the land where he was found, is certified by the Guinness Book of Records as the largest documented skeleton of a triceratops.

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The dinosaur died on an ancestral plain on the mainland island that stretched from present-day Alaska to Mexico, allowing the skeleton to be preserved in mud.

The skeleton is more than 60% complete and its skull more than 75%, which makes it unique.

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Big John's skeleton is over 60% complete and his skull is over 75% complete, making him unique.

It measures 23 feet (7.15 meters) in length and stands 8 feet (2.7 meters) tall at hip level.

The skull makes up more than a third of its total length, with two horns over 3.6 feet (1.1 meters).

The closing price at the Drouot auction house, before commission and other costs, was 5.5 million euros ($ 6.4 million).

The largest triceratops skeleton in the world, known as Big John, at auction on October 21, 2021 in Paris, France.Francois Mori / AP

"It is a record for Europe," said auctioneer Alexandre Giquello, who did not reveal the identity of the buyer.

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"The overall quality of Big John was really worth this price," said Iacopo Briano, an expert in paleontology.

“For a triceratops and for a herbivore.

It's an incredible record, "he said.

Last year, a tyrannosaurus rex skeleton fetched nearly $ 32 million at auction in New York, making it the most expensive dinosaur ever sold.

Big John was sold to a private American buyer who asked to remain anonymous.

Djuan Rivers, buyer representative, said: "It is purchased by an American collector who is absolutely delighted with the idea of ​​being able to put a piece like this to personal use."

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“The story behind it and its durability are absolutely impressive.

So being able to be a part of conserving something of this nature ... is also something extremely special, ”added Rivers.