Great White Shark Ancestor Tooth / Megalodon or Broad-Toothed Mako Tooth
cf. Otodus megalodon • Vertebrate body fossil (mineralized shark tooth)
Geological Period
Neogene (Miocene to Pliocene)
Estimated Age
5 to 20 million years
Preservation Type
Permineralization and fossilization with replacement of original organic material by minerals, maintaining enameloid integrity.
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The enamel is mostly intact with sharp tips and clear bourlette, showing minor natural wear on the root edges but overall high structural completeness.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum: Chordata, Class: Chondrichthyes, Order: Lamniformes, Family: Otodontidae, Genus: Otodus, Species: Otodus megalodon (or transitional lineage)
Morphological Description
Large triangular crown with visible fine serrations along the cutting edges, distinct prominent bourlette (chevron-shaped root-crown boundary), and a robust, two-rooted structure adapted for apex predation.
Rock Matrix
None visible, expertly cleaned and mounted on a custom metal and acrylic display stand.
Formation & Location
Often found in marine deposits such as the Hawthorn Group in Florida, the Cooper River in South Carolina, or coastal formations in North Carolina and Georgia, USA.
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 7 to 9 centimeters in height, falling into the medium-large range for typical adult specimens of this taxon.
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$300 - $600 USD
Auction Estimate
$250 - $500 USD
Rarity Assessment
Uncommon to Rare depending on size and completeness, with well-preserved specimens with intact serrations highly sought after by collectors.
Scientific Significance
Provides critical evidence regarding the evolution, apex predation habits, and ancient marine biodiversity of Neogene ecosystems.
Preparation Recommendations
Store in a stable indoor environment away from direct sunlight and extreme humidity fluctuations. Clean gently with a soft, dry brush when needed.
Notable Features
Distinctively light coloration and well-defined vertical striations near the base of the crown, paired with a well-preserved bourlette.