The Most Expensive Dinosaur Ever Sold at Auction
A Historic Sale
Named after the late ranch owner Gary “Gus” Licking, the extraordinary fossil exceeded all expectations during a competitive auction. Its exceptional preservation, scientific importance, and rarity attracted worldwide attention, resulting in a record-breaking sale that surpassed every previous dinosaur auction.
An Extraordinary Discovery
Discovered in Harding County, South Dakota, Gus ranks among the finest Tyrannosaurus rex specimens ever found. The skeleton preserves approximately 80% of its original bone mass, while its skull remains around 82% complete, making it one of the most scientifically valuable fossils uncovered in modern times.
A Giant of Prehistoric History
Once fully reconstructed, Gus measures approximately 11.6 metres (38 feet) in length and stands 3.8 metres (12.5 feet) tall. Equipped with enormous teeth and one of the strongest bite forces ever estimated for a land animal, the predator represents one of the greatest hunters to have walked the Earth.
A New Benchmark
The record-breaking sale highlights the growing international appreciation for rare prehistoric fossils. More than a valuable collectible, Gus represents an extraordinary piece of Earth’s history, demonstrating how scientific significance, exceptional preservation, and rarity can combine to create a truly historic world record.
