Lot 85B

Hyphalosaurus Fossil - Large Ancient Aquatic Reptile!

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Hyphalosaurus Fossil - Large Ancient Aquatic Reptile!

Estimate: $3,600 - $5,400

October 2, 2025 8:00 AM MDT (In Progress)
Live Auction
Louisville, CO, US


Description:

Ancient Seas, China, Early Cretaceous period, ca. 123 to 120 million years ago. A remarkable Hyphalosaurus lingyuanensis fossilized in a stone matrix and presented in a display frame. This fossil represents an extraordinary example of the species, which typically reaches around 3 feet (1 meter) in total length, yet this particular specimen extends an impressive length beyond average expectations for Hyphalosaurus. Known as an aquatic reptile belonging to the Choristodera order, Hyphalosaurus resembled a sleek, long-necked swimmer with paddle-like limbs and an elongated tail, evoking the form of a miniature plesiosaur often compared to popular imagery of creatures like the Loch Ness Monster. These ancient reptiles thrived in freshwater lakes and marshy regions before disappearing by the end of the Early Cretaceous. The sheer size and preservation of this individual make it a spectacular and rare collector's piece! Size of frame: 30" L x 1.5" W x 14" H (76.2 cm x 3.8 cm x 35.6 cm); fossil snout to tail tip: 25" L x 5" W (63.5 cm x 12.7 cm)

Provenance: Private Redwood City, California, USA collection acquired around 2000

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#183101

  • Condition: Professionally prepared. Stable fissures and abrasions throughout. Losses to finer details of the fossil especially on the skull, and fissures crossing over the fossil. Stone matrix has a plaster and wood backing added to the verso. Framed in metal with hardware added to the verso for reinforcement. Ready to display!

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000