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Record $5.3M Paid for Largest Martian Meteorite

7/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A stunning 54-pound Martian meteorite, NWA 16788, fetched an astonishing $5.3 million at a New York auction. Unearthed in Niger in November 2023, this colossal specimen is the largest piece of Mars ever found on our planet, eclipsing the next largest by 70%. With only around 400 Martian meteorites known, its rarity adds to its allure.

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Story summary

A stunning 54-pound Martian meteorite, NWA 16788, fetched an astonishing $5.3 million at a New York auction. Unearthed in Niger in November 2023, this colossal specimen is the largest piece of Mars ever found on our planet, eclipsing the next largest by 70%. With only around 400 Martian meteorites known, its rarity adds to its allure.