‘Gus’ the T. rex, among the most complete ever found, goes on display in New York before auction

New York, July 2 — One of the world’s most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeletons, nicknamed “Gus,” was showcased yesterday at Sotheby’s auction house in New York ahead of its sale later this month.

Valued at between US$20 million to US$30 million (RM81 million to RM122 million) — the highest price estimate ever for a dinosaur — the giant fossil was discovered on a cattle ranch in South Dakota in 2021.

“Gus” lived during the Maastrichtian period, some 72 to 66 million years ago, which was characterized by a warm climate, high sea levels and vast floodable coastal plains.

The skeleton measures 38 feet (11.6 metres) in body length, making it one of the largest T. rexes ever discovered. It has 183 fossilised bones and is roughly 63 per cent complete.

“Gus” is on view in New York until July 14, when the auction will take place. — AFP