Pleistocene Mammal Bone Fragment (likely Woolly Mammoth or Giant Deer)
Indeterminate large Pleistocene megafauna (cf. Mammuthus primigenius or cf. Megaloceros giganteus) • Sub-fossil body fossil; Vertebrate mammal bone fragment (part of a large limb or joint bone element)
Geological Period
Late Pleistocene to Early Holocene
Estimated Age
0.01 - 0.05 million years (10,000 to 50,000 years BP)
Preservation Type
Partial mineral replacement and mineralization from seawater immersion; often referred to as a 'sub-fossil' due to limited permineralization.
Condition Assessment
Fair; the specimen is incomplete and shows significant water-rolling and edge abrasion, though bone micro-texture and articular surface morphology are still distinct.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum: Chordata, Class: Mammalia, Order: Proboscidea or Artiodactyla
Morphological Description
Irregularly shaped cortical bone fragment showing highly porous cancellous (spongy) bone structure internally and a worn outer cortical surface. One side preserves a smooth, slightly concave articular surface suggesting it was part of a joint. Visible vascular pitting and fine surface cracking (taphonomic weathering) are present across the specimen.
Rock Matrix
None adhering; specimen shows signs of water-worn abrasion from North Sea currents, with a dark brown/tan patina characteristic of fossils from the Eurogeul/Maasvlakte region.
Formation & Location
Eurogeul area of the North Sea floor, recovered via dredging or shore-found at Maasvlakte 1 or 2, Netherlands. Likely from various Pleistocene deposits submerged during the post-glacial transgression.
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 6-8 cm in length; consistent with a fragment of a much larger limb bone such as a femur, humerus, or phalange of a megafauna species.
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $35.00 USD
Auction Estimate
$20.00 - $50.00 USD (typically sold in larger mixed lots)
Rarity Assessment
Common; bone fragments of this nature are frequently found by beachcombers and fisherman along the Dutch coast and Maasvlakte beaches.
Scientific Significance
Provides evidence of the 'Mammoth Steppe' ecosystem that existed in the North Holland/Doggerland region during the last glacial period. It assists in reconstructing the faunal assembly of Northern Europe before sea-level rise.
Preparation Recommendations
Requires desalination (soaking in fresh water) if recently found on the beach to prevent salt-crystal damage. Surface can be stabilized with a thin coating of Paraloid B-72 if flaking occurs. Store in a dry, temperature-stable environment.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'ice age' patina and heavy mineralization common to North Sea finds. The concave surface indicates a proximal or distal joint connection point.
Notes
Maasvlakte