Meet Gus the T. rex
A huge dinosaur fossil named Gus is going to be sold at an auction by the famous company Sotheby’s. Experts think it could sell for between $20 million and $30 million!
Gus is a Tyrannosaurus rex (T. rex), one of the most powerful meat-eating dinosaurs that ever lived. The dinosaur lived about 67 million years ago.
Where Was Gus Found?
Gus was discovered in 2021 on a large cattle ranch in South Dakota, USA. The fossil was named after the ranch owner, Gary “Gus” Licking.
Scientists and fossil experts worked for almost five years to carefully dig up the bones and put the skeleton back together.
Why Is Gus So Special?
Sotheby’s says Gus is one of the most complete T. rex skeletons ever found. That means many of the dinosaur’s bones were still there!
- Bite marks on the bones
- Broken bones that healed over time
These clues help scientists learn more about how T. rexes lived, fought, and survived.
What Is an Auction?
An auction is an event where people bid money to buy valuable items. The person who offers the highest amount wins.
Very rich collectors sometimes buy dinosaur fossils. Some people lend them to museums so everyone can see them.
Other Famous Dinosaur Fossils
Sue the T. rex
In 1997, another T. rex named Sue sold for $8.4 million. Sue is now displayed at the Field Museum in Chicago.
Stan the T. rex
A T. rex named Stan sold for $31.8 million in 2020.
Apex the Stegosaurus
In 2024, a Stegosaurus fossil called Apex sold for $44.6 million, making it the most expensive fossil ever sold.
Why Fossils Matter
Fossils are important because they help us understand animals and plants from long ago. Scientists called palaeontologists study fossils to learn about Earth’s history.
Finding and protecting fossils helps museums and scientists teach people about dinosaurs and ancient life.
Fun Fact!
Putting together dinosaur bones is like solving a giant puzzle — except the pieces have been buried underground for millions of years!
