Part 8/11:
The commercial dimension of fossil trading is pervasive, with fossils often coming from private lands or international sources. Dealers and auction houses seek to maximize profit, often facilitating the sale of rare or complete specimens to the highest bidder. For example, specimens like a well-preserved Allosaurus or a complete Triceratops are highly valued—and often sold for premium prices.
Dealers underline that fossils are not just collectibles—they are valuable scientific data. They argue that responsible markets can foster conservation, promote interest in science, and support paleontological research. Conversely, critics warn that overvaluation and speculation can lead to a fossil bubble, where prices become disconnected from scientific and conservation realities.