Pogonodon Fossil Skeleton. Pogonodon platycopis. Oligocene. White River Badlands, South Dakota, USA. ...

Description

Pogonodon Fossil Skeleton
Pogonodon platycopis
Oligocene
White River Badlands, South Dakota, USA

This most incredible vertebrate skeleton is a product of outstanding fossilization and very talented preparation skills. This sizable example of nimravid - extinct carnivorans often referred to as "false saber-toothed cats"- represents Pogonodon platycopis and was collected out of the famous White River Badlands. These predatory cat-like creatures lived during the Late Oligocene some 30 million years ago. Featuring robust canine teeth and a powerful body - Pogonodon was likely a formidable hunter to the misfortune of unwitting prey. An extremely rare type of fossil, Pogonodon platycopis is a highly collectible variety of vertebrates. Collected on a private ranch with all required documented rights and permissions, this superlative specimen is approximately 70 percent original - a relatively high percentage for such a skeleton - and a magnificent offering measuring over 60 inches (152 cm) featuring an outstanding skull, pronounced canines, talon-like claws, and dynamic pose, thanks to a custom metal armature which impactfully displays the fossil from tip to tail. The skull measures a stout 9 inches (23 cm) by 6 inches (15 cm), with the largest canine reaching a length of 2 inches (5 cm). It goes without saying that the "prep" was of the highest level and was performed with an exceptional amount of care. This skeleton is comprised of numerous individual pieces that come together as a museum-quality representation of the unique genus. Similar in size and form to some well-known modern varieties, including lions, leopards, and jaguars, this prehistoric version was one awesome beast, and this singular, fossilized skeleton demonstrates that with supreme visual appeal. Luckily, for the current residents of South Dakota, Pogonodon went extinct during the Miocene Epoch. This exemplary fossil remained as an unseen treasure in a private collection for many years - until now.
Overall Measurements: 62.00 x 26.50 x 20.00 inches (157.48 x 67.31 x 50.80 cm)

More Information: The accompanying image is an artistic interpretation, based on knowledge from the fossil record and ancillary factors, of the potential appearance of the above extinct animal. Please note the rendering does not accompany the Lot.


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