T4K3.news

Largest Martian Meteorite to Auction for Up to $4 Million

NWA 16788, the largest Martian meteorite, will be auctioned on July 16 and may reach $4 million.

July 14, 2025 at 08:55 PM

Biggest Martian Meteorite Ever Found Could Fetch $4 Million at Auction

The impressive NWA 16788 meteorite is expected to fetch millions at its upcoming auction.

Largest Martian Meteorite Ever Discovered Heads to Auction

NWA 16788, a 54-pound Martian meteorite, will be auctioned by Sotheby’s, potentially reaching a bid of $4 million on July 16. Discovered in the Sahara Desert, this meteorite is significant as it is the largest chunk of Mars found on Earth. Estimated to have traveled 140 million miles, it may have been dislodged from Mars by an asteroid impact. Sotheby’s highlights its rarity, with only about 400 Martian meteorites among over 77,000 recognized meteorites globally. Experts are divided on its sale; some argue it deserves a place in a museum, while others find value in its auctioning for scientific growth.

Key Takeaways

✔️

NWA 16788 is the largest Martian meteorite found on Earth.

✔️

Estimated auction price is between $1.9 million and $4 million.

✔️

Most Martian meteorites are rare; only 400 known out of 77,000.

✔️

The discovery highlights tension between private ownership and public access.

"NWA 16788 is a discovery of extraordinary significance."

Cassandra Hatton emphasizes the importance of this rare meteorite for science and culture.

"It would be a shame if it disappeared into the vault of an oligarch."

Steve Brusatte argues that significant meteorites belong in museums for public viewing.

"Ultimately, if there was no market for searching, collecting and selling meteorites, we would not have anywhere near as many in our collections."

Julia Cartwright discusses the impact of the meteorite market on scientific research.

"This remarkable meteorite provides a tangible connection to the red planet."

Cassandra Hatton explains the significance of NWA 16788 as a connection between Earth and Mars.

The auction of NWA 16788 brings attention to the balance between private collection and public access to important scientific specimens. While some argue that significant findings should reside in museums, others point out that a thriving market for meteorites contributes to ongoing research. The debate reflects broader themes concerning ownership of natural resources and cultural heritage in an age where material wealth can dictate the preservation of history.