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Mars meteorite sells for $4.3 million at auction

The largest Mars rock found on Earth was auctioned in New York for an impressive sum.

July 16, 2025 at 10:02 PM

Largest Mars rock ever sells for $4.3m at auction

A meteorite from Mars just set a record at auction, selling for an impressive amount.

Record-breaking sale of Mars meteorite reaches $4.3 million

A meteorite from Mars, the largest ever found on Earth, has been auctioned for $4.3 million at Sotheby's in New York. Known as NWA 16788, this extraordinary piece weighs 54 pounds and measures nearly 15 inches long. Discovered in November 2023 in Niger, it surpasses the next biggest Mars meteorite by 70%. Meteorites are fragments from asteroids or comets that survive their passage through Earth's atmosphere and can offer insights about our solar system.

Key Takeaways

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NWA 16788 is the largest Mars meteorite ever found on Earth.

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It sold for $4.3 million at Sotheby's auction in New York.

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The meteorite weighs 54 pounds and is nearly 15 inches long.

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Discovered in Niger in November 2023, it is a major scientific find.

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Meteorites offer insight into the solar system's history and composition.

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This sale indicates increasing interest in space collectibles.

"This meteorite is an unbelievably rare find, representing a connection to Mars."

An auction house representative describes the significance of the meteorite.

"Meteorites are like time capsules from the universe, holding untold stories."

A scientist reflects on the importance of meteorites in understanding the solar system.

This record sale highlights a growing interest in space-related collectibles. As exploration of Mars and other celestial bodies advances, the market for meteorites could continue to grow. Such high prices reflect not only rarity but also the allure of owning a piece of another planet. Collectors see these meteorites as unique artifacts that may tell stories of the universe's history.