Largest Martian Rock on Earth to Be Auctioned in New York

A massive meteorite, weighing 54 pounds (24.7 kg), and considered the largest piece of Mars ever found on Earth, is set for auction at Sotheby’s in New York

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Officially named NWA 16788, this rare Martian rock was discovered in Niger in November 2023 and represents nearly 7% of all Martian material ever found on our planet

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Estimated to sell for $2 million to $4 million, the meteorite draws attention from collectors and scientists alike

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The rock was likely blasted off Mars by a massive asteroid impact, traveled 140 million miles, and eventually landed in the Sahara Desert before being found

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Classified as an olivine‑microgabbroic shergottite, the meteorite contains minerals like pyroxene and olivine, and sports a glassy crust from atmospheric entry

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Displayed at Sotheby’s galleries in New York until July 15, the meteorite precedes its live auction during the annual Geek Week sale on July 16

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Among over 77,000 recognized meteorites, only 400 are from Mars. This one specimen outshines them all—estimated to be 70% larger than any known Martian meteorite

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