Massive T-rex skeleton set to become most expensive fossil ever sold

One of the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex fossils ever discovered in South Dakota is headed to auction, where it could fetch more than $30 million.The fossil, nicknamed “Gus,” was unearthed in Harding County’s Hell Creek Formation and is being auctioned by Sotheby’s. Bidding opens Tuesday with a starting bid of $19 million. If it reaches the high estimate, Gus would rank among the most expensive dinosaur fossils ever sold.The mounted skeleton stretches about 38 feet long, stands 12½ feet tall and is considered one of the largest T. rex specimens ever found. Researchers say it is about 61% complete by bone count, including an exceptionally well-preserved skull, rare belly ribs and a complete pelvis.Scientists also found evidence the dinosaur survived multiple injuries during its lifetime, including healed fractures and bite marks that may have come from another tyrannosaur.Mounted in a lifelike hunting pose, Gus includes documentation verifying its authenticity and legal ownership.– with Agencies inputs --