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Home / Art & Antiques / 2021 March 19 Nature & Science Platinum Night Auction - Dallas Auction #8036 / Lot #72019
    LOT #72019  | 
    Opening Bid: $150,000

    NWA 1950 Martian Meteorite - Main Mass. Martian (shergottite). Northwest Africa . Foun...

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    • Meteorites:Martian, NWA 1950 Martian Meteorite - Main Mass. Martian (shergottite). Northwest Africa . Foun...
    • Meteorites:Martian, NWA 1950 Martian Meteorite - Main Mass. Martian (shergottite). Northwest Africa . Foun...
    • Meteorites:Martian, NWA 1950 Martian Meteorite - Main Mass. Martian (shergottite). Northwest Africa . Foun...
    Meteorites:Martian, NWA 1950 Martian Meteorite - Main Mass. Martian (shergottite). Northwest Africa . Foun... Meteorites:Martian, NWA 1950 Martian Meteorite - Main Mass. Martian (shergottite). Northwest Africa . Foun... Meteorites:Martian, NWA 1950 Martian Meteorite - Main Mass. Martian (shergottite). Northwest Africa . Foun... View More >
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    Opening Bid: $150,000** w/ Buyer's Premium (BP) : $187,500.00 Status: No Reserve   Heritage Live Enabled
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    Description

    NWA 1950 Martian Meteorite - Main Mass
    Martian (shergottite)
    Northwest Africa
    Found: 2001

    Found in 2001, Martian Meteorite NWA 1950 is classified as a shergottite-lherzolithic and is an iconic variety. Considered the most beautiful Martian Meteorite, this super rare Peridotite is nicknamed the "Jules Verne" in homage to his work The Chase of the Golden Meteor originally published in 1908. An important meteorite without question, this specimen is the MAIN MASS of the variety representing a massive 231.8 grams example, a considerable amount of the total known weight of 812 grams found.

    This piece of the Red Planet which landed in Morocco is effectively an end cut, with a gorgeous colorful window face revealing a speckled interior composition of yellowish-green and black colors blended in a captivating pattern. A wonderful duality is present in the specimen as the vibrant interior contrasts with the darker exterior that features a beautiful, thick brown fusion crust, with some minor reddish fracture veining. The importance of this piece is further confirmed by its images appearing on the NASA website.

    One of the world's rarest Martian Meteorites, this example of NWA 1950 "Jules Verne" is singular, and beyond significant. An incredibly uncommon type of an already rare grouping, this superlative offering must be admired and appreciated for what it represents. The relatively massive SNC specimen appears compelling from both sides, and its face is ideal in terms of color and pattern. Referring to this as either highly collectible, or museum-quality, would be an understatement of the true nature of this meteorite.
    Overall Measurements: 2.82 x 2.39 x 1.52 inches (7.16 x 6.07 x 3.85 cm), weighs 231.8 grams


    [Scale: 1 inch, with mark at 1 cm]

    Estimate: $300,000 - $500,000.

    Condition Report*: Condition report available upon request.
    *Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and shall not be liable for any damage/scratches to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or art that has slipped in frames. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.

    Auction Info

    Proxy Bidding Ends
    March
    19th Friday 6:50 pm CT
    Auction Dates
    March
    19th Friday
    Proxy Bidding Time Remaining
    12 Days 36m 37s
    Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 0
    Lot Tracking Activity: 28
    Page Views: 1,652

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    This lot is in: 1 - Signature® Floor Session (Live Floor, Live Phone, Mail, Fax, Internet, and Heritage Live):
    (Lots 72001-72050) - 7:00 PM Central Time, Friday, March 19, 2021.
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    Additional Location Info:
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    2801 W. Airport Freeway
    Dallas, TX 75261



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    Opening Bid: $150,000 w/ Buyer's Premium (BP) :
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