Lot 86A

Prehistoric Land Tortoise Fossilized Shell, Stylemys

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Prehistoric Land Tortoise Fossilized Shell, Stylemys

Estimate: $2,600 - $3,900

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


Description:

North America, United States, South Dakota, White River Formation, Oligocene period, ca. 33 to 30 million years ago. A remarkable fossilized tortoise shell from the extinct genus Stylemys, among the earliest true land-dwelling tortoises in North America. The specimen is exceptionally preserved, its domed carapace displaying well-defined sutures between scutes that highlight the natural segmentation of the shell. The underside of the plastron even reveals the preserved remains of bone within the opening of one hind limb, adding further anatomical significance. These tortoises once traversed the Oligocene landscapes of South Dakota, foraging on vegetation in environments they shared with early horses, camels, and the mighty rhinocerotids. Size: 10" L x 8" W x 5" H (25.4 cm x 20.3 cm x 12.7 cm)

Provenance: private Hagar collection, Wildwood, Missouri, USA

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#197527

  • Condition: Professionally prepared. Carapace is largely intact, with its domed form and scute pattern well preserved. Some areas of modern infill along cracks and breaklines. Approximately 90% or more original material.

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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