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Martian Meteorite Expected to Fetch $4 Million at Auction

7/3/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A stunning Martian meteorite, NWA 16788, weighing an impressive 54 pounds, is poised to fetch up to $4 million at Sotheby’s New York on July 16. Unearthed in Niger, this extraordinary specimen is the largest known fragment of Mars on our planet. Experts warn that selling it could jeopardize its invaluable scientific significance and public accessibility.

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Story summary

A stunning Martian meteorite, NWA 16788, weighing an impressive 54 pounds, is poised to fetch up to $4 million at Sotheby’s New York on July 16. Unearthed in Niger, this extraordinary specimen is the largest known fragment of Mars on our planet. Experts warn that selling it could jeopardize its invaluable scientific significance and public accessibility.