Stegosaurus

Stegosaurus sp.

Late Jurassic (approx. 161-146 million years ago)

Morrison Formation, Moffatt County, Colorado, USA

An outstanding exhibition-ready mounted skeleton, measuring approximately 11 feet tall and nearly 27 feet long from nose to tail, with a femur length of 45 inches. The specimen mounted has a footprint of approximately 20 feet 5 inches in length due to the curvature of the spine and elevated position of the tail. Virtually complete, with 254 fossil bone elements (of an approximate total of 319), with additional 3D printed and sculpted elements. Judging from the overall size and degree of the bone development it can be determined that the skeleton belonged to a large, robust adult individual, and evidence of arthritis, particularly notable in the fusion of the 4 sacral vertebrae, would indicate that it lived to an advanced age. The specimen shows no signs of combat related injuries, or evidence of post-mortem scavenging, and exhibits a number of interesting pathologies.

Professionally prepared, and accurately articulated anatomically, the skeleton is mounted in an aggressive attack pose on a custom steel armature. Each bone has been fitted with individual holding brackets, which allows for safe, secure mounting, while being removable for study or shipping. Heavy-duty adjustable steel leveling feet have been incorporated into the metal base to secure the skeleton to the floor and prevent rocking. Adding greatly to the practicality of this armature is the special four pivoting joints, which allows the skull and neck vertebrae to be positioned right or left, thus, permitting the skeleton to face the appropriate direction on exhibit, and the chevrons of the tail are fitted with magnets for easy assembly. The specimen was meticulously prepared to the highest standards, showcasing the fossils’ natural beauty and preserving important contextual information, including fossilized skin impressions, and three ossicles (throat armor), which are offered along with the specimen. Additionally the first two dermal plates, which are naturally very delicate and fragile, have been stored in a case, with 3D printed replicas placed on the mount in their place.

The skeleton is offered with full rights, and the offering includes full documentation certifying condition, authenticity, and legality of ownership, as well as detailed 3D scans of the full specimen.

Photography: Matthew Sherman