Ken Griffin, the hedge fund billionaire and founder of Citadel Securities, has purchased a nearly complete Stegosaurus fossil nicknamed “Apex” for a record-breaking $44.6 million at a Sotheby’s auction. This surpasses the previous record of $32 million, making Apex the most expensive fossil ever sold. The auction, which attracted seven bidders, originally listed the fossil’s species as undetermined, possibly due to limited scientific study.
The Apex Stegosaurus Fossil: A Remarkable Find
Unearthed on private land in Moffat County, Colorado, near the aptly named town of Dinosaur in 2022 and 2023, Apex boasts an exceptional level of preservation. Sotheby’s describes the fossil as exhibiting “exquisite detail” with minimal distortion, retaining much of its original shape and surface characteristics. Comprising 254 of an estimated 319 bone elements, the skeleton belonged to a large, robust adult Stegosaurus. Evidence of arthritis suggests the dinosaur lived to an advanced age, while the absence of combat-related injuries or scavenging marks adds to its intrigue. The fossil also exhibits a number of interesting pathologies, further enriching its scientific value.
Griffin’s Plans for Apex and the Controversy Surrounding the Sale
Griffin has stated he intends to loan Apex to a U.S. institution, assuring the public that “Apex was born in America and is going to stay in America.” However, the specific details of this loan, including the institution involved and the extent of public access, remain unclear.
The sale has sparked controversy within the scientific community. Concerns have been raised about the privatization of such significant historical artifacts, limiting research opportunities and potentially hindering scientific advancement. The lack of definitive species identification prior to the sale further underscores the need for thorough scientific study.
Ken Griffin: Billionaire, Philanthropist, and Political Donor
Griffin’s estimated net worth is approximately $38 billion. He has donated over $60 million to Republican candidates in the current election cycle, initially supporting Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in the primaries. While he hasn’t yet contributed to Donald Trump’s campaign, Griffin previously indicated he would decide after Trump announced his vice presidential pick. With Ohio Senator J.D. Vance now selected, Griffin’s potential support for Trump remains a topic of speculation.
The Fallout from the Gamestop Saga
Griffin’s Citadel Securities faced scrutiny during the 2021 Gamestop meme stock frenzy, with allegations linking the firm to trading restrictions imposed by Robinhood. Although Griffin dismissed these claims as conspiracy theories, the hashtag “KenGriffinLied” gained traction on social media, highlighting the public’s distrust and skepticism.
Conclusion: A Historic Acquisition with Lingering Questions
Griffin’s acquisition of Apex marks a significant moment in the history of fossil sales, raising crucial questions about the balance between private ownership and scientific access. While Griffin’s pledge to loan the fossil to a U.S. institution suggests a commitment to public engagement, the specifics of this arrangement will ultimately determine the true impact of this historic purchase on the scientific community and the public alike. The controversy surrounding the sale emphasizes the ongoing debate about the ethical considerations of privatizing historically and scientifically significant artifacts.
