Echinoderm trace fossil slab
I am an AP Biology teacher of 30+ years. While out on our cattle farm making lesson videos, I found the echinoderm trace fossil laying in one of our stream branches. Our area's formation is Jefferson City dolomite from the Ordivician period. The stream beds are at bedrock level. The slab was posted on the international Ichnology FB page. Over 100 comments, the majority discussed echinodem trace fossil. The slab is beautiful and undamaged.
28" x 20" by 5" (thickness)......very heavy slab
Other
Yes
Echinoderm trace fossil cluster (Sea Stars)
Northern Plains; North America
Believed to be Ordovician Period (488.3 - 443.7 million years ago)
The example shows a cluster of ancient sea star exoskeletons captured in the grey limestone matrix. The region's limestone is known for many fossils and the grey coloration is from volcanic ash millions of years ago. From images, the specimens appear to remain along a surface, without indentation or loss across the fossil. No areas of relief noted. Some areas that may have the creatures trace marks are noted. This example was excavated by the current owner, who: "found [the] echinoderm trace fossil laying in one of our stream branches. Our area's formation is Jefferson City dolomite from the Ordivician {sic} period. The stream beds are at bedrock level."
Approximate dimensions: 28" X 20" X 5"; weight not disclosed.
I believe this is a fair price assessment of the average of current FMV. If the example was given professional fossil preparation (professionally cleaned, polished, and was as given a display or mounting apparatus) it could achieve a higher value at auction.
