JOOPITER Auctions Two Maiasaura Dinosaur Skeletons

The digital auction platform JOOPITER has launched a global sale featuring two exceptionally rare Maiasaura peeblesorum dinosaur skeletons, named Koda and Hank, with bidding open until October 6, 2026. These 76-million-year-old fossils, originating from Montana's Two Medicine Formation, represent an adult and a juvenile specimen of the duck-billed herbivore species known for providing the first scientific evidence of dinosaur parental care. The sale, which began on September 22, 2026, offers the two composite mounts as separate lots, with a combined estimated value of up to $2 million USD. The adult specimen, Koda, measures 20.7 feet long and 8.5 feet tall, and is estimated to fetch between $900,000 and $1,200,000 USD. Koda's mount is composed of 68% original fossil bone by count. The juvenile specimen, Hank, measures 13 feet long and 6.3 feet tall, with an estimate of $600,000 to $800,000 USD. Hank's mount incorporates 62% original fossil material. Both mounts were prepared under the scientific direction of Dr. Frédéric Lacombat and include 3D-printed and epoxy resin components to fill in areas where original fossil bone was absent. The juxtaposition of the adult and juvenile specimens offers a rare physical representation of prehistoric family life, illustrating significant developmental shifts in skull structure, body proportions, and locomotion mechanics as the Maiasaura matured. The Linster Quarry in Montana's Two Medicine Formation is the source of these significant paleontological finds, dating back to the Late Cretaceous period. JOOPITER, the online auction house, facilitates this unique sale, allowing collectors worldwide to bid on these scientifically important fossils. The auction closes on October 6, 2026, exclusively through the JOOPITER platform. The Maiasaura peeblesorum, often referred to as the "good mother lizard," is a pivotal species in understanding dinosaur behavior and social structures due to earlier discoveries of nesting sites and evidence of communal care. The inclusion of both an adult and a juvenile specimen provides an unparalleled opportunity to study ontogenetic changes within the species. The preparation process, involving both original fossil material and modern fabrication techniques, ensures a stable and visually comprehensive display for educational and exhibition purposes. This auction highlights the growing market for significant paleontological specimens, bridging scientific research with private collection.