Rare “Nanotyrannus” Fossil “Jodi” Sells for $47.3 Million at Sotheby’s

On October 27, 2026, a mounted Nanotyrannus skeleton nicknamed “Jodi” sold at a Sotheby’s auction in New York for $47.3 million, far above the $6 million–$9 million estimate. Six parties participated in a 12-minute live bidding war; the buyer’s identity was not disclosed.

New York Post

The specimen was uncovered in 2019 on private land in Montana’s Hell Creek Formation by rancher Jodi Pierson and excavated by commercial paleontologist Clayton Phipps. It was displayed at London’s Frieze Masters art fair in 2023 as “Chomper.” A 2025 study confirmed Nanotyrannus as a distinct genus, citing over 150 anatomical differences from Tyrannosaurus rex.

Rare Nanotyrannus skeleton sells for $47.3M at US auction

• Sale price: $47.3 million (including fees)

New York Observer

• Pre-sale estimate: $6 million–$9 million

New York Observer

• Known specimens: three relatively complete Nanotyrannus skeletons worldwide

CNN

• Bone elements: ~191 pieces, including a virtually complete skull with 53 bones and ~50 teeth

BBC News

• Size: height 6.5 ft–9.5 ft; length ~19.6 ft (6 m)

New York Observer

• Age: ~67 million years (Maastrichtian, Late Cretaceous)

New York Observer

Sotheby’s thanked the fossil-hunting team featured on *Dino Hunters*. Cassandra Hatton, head of science and natural history, said the specimen’s preservation “has helped bring us to this moment, a testament to the fact that we can all make major contributions to science.”

Nanotyrannus skeleton sold for $47.3 million

Sources differ on height: the New York Post lists 6.5 ft, the BBC “roughly 10 ft,” CNN 9.6 ft, and the Observer 9 ft 6 in. All agree on a length of about 19.6 ft. No details are available on the buyer’s plans beyond rights to create replicas.

New York Observer

The sale revives debate over private ownership versus scientific preservation. In the U.S., fossils on private land can be sold, unlike many countries where they are national heritage. Proponents argue private funding enables discoveries; opponents fear a price “bubble” that could hinder research and public education.

New York Observer

The buyer holds “full rights,” permitting replica production for museums or collectors. Whether the specimen will be displayed publicly or remain in a private collection is still unknown.

New York Observer