How much would you pay to own a Tyrannosaurus rex?
One mystery buyer has just answered that question with a record-breaking $50.1 million (£37.4 million).
“Gus” is now the most expensive dinosaur fossil ever sold.
The 67-million-year-old T. rex was auctioned by Sotheby’s in New York.
It stands more than 12 feet tall and is considered one of the most complete specimens ever discovered, with over 60% of its skeleton recovered.
Found on a remote ranch in South Dakota in 2021, Gus spent three summers being excavated before experts spent another three years carefully restoring the fossil.
Sotheby’s science and natural history chief Cassandra Hatton called the result “years in the making.”
She said the dinosaur had been “excavated, documented, prepared, and cared for with real excellence.”
Auction Sparks Debate
Researchers also uncovered clues to Gus’s violent past.
Bite marks on the skull and healed rib fractures suggest the giant predator survived fierce encounters.
Possibly battles with rivals or dangerous scavenging missions.
The sale smashed the previous auction record set by a stegosaurus in 2024 and has sparked debate among palaeontologists.
Some experts believe these soaring prices could reshape fossil collecting, with wealthy private buyers playing a much bigger role.
Who now owns Gus remains a secret. But if history repeats itself, this prehistoric giant may still end up on public display.
Even a $50 million dinosaur can continue telling its story.
