The largest Mars rock on Earth, weighing 54 pounds, is currently on auction at Sotheby's, expected to fetch between $2 million and $4 million. Known as NWA 16788, it was acquired by a seller who learned of it from a meteorite hunter in Africa. Thorough testing and publication in the meteoritical bulletin were essential steps for documentation. Auction prices fluctuate based on bidders' perceptions rather than mere estimates, as demonstrated by previous high-profile sales like a Stegosaurus.
"At the end of the day, it's the bidders who tell us what things are worth, not me, not anyone else. The estimates are just there to give people an indication," said Cassandra Hatton, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of auction pricing.
"When they first acquired it, they called me right away. I said, 'All right, we have got to get it tested; we need to have it published in the meteoritical bulletin,'" illustrating the importance of documentation and testing for the Mars rock.
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