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Asia's Fossil Trade: Wealthy Collectors and Ethical Dilemmas

2/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A two-part 101 East special investigates Asia's role in the growing multimillion-dollar dinosaur fossil trade and highlights the complexities of the market.
Demand among wealthy collectors in Asia has surged.
In 2024, a Stegosaurus skeleton fetched a record $44.6 million at a New York auction.
Some academics argue the commercial fossil trade is unethical and detrimental to scientific research.

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Story summary

A two-part 101 East special investigates Asia's role in the growing multimillion-dollar dinosaur fossil trade and highlights the complexities of the market.
Demand among wealthy collectors in Asia has surged.
In 2024, a Stegosaurus skeleton fetched a record $44.6 million at a New York auction.
Some academics argue the commercial fossil trade is unethical and detrimental to scientific research.