Fossil Shark Tooth
cf. Carcharodon hastalis (Extinct Giant Mako) • Body fossil; Vertebrate (Chondrichthyes)
Geological Period
Neogene (likely Miocene or Pliocene)
Estimated Age
5 to 23 million years
Preservation Type
Permineralization with phosphate replacement; dark coloration indicates a low-oxygen marine sediment environment.
Condition Assessment
Fair; the specimen shows significant beach-wear or transport abrasion, particularly along the margins and the root base, which is largely missing.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum: Chordata, Class: Chondrichthyes, Order: Lamniformes, Family: Lamnidae
Morphological Description
A triangular, flattened tooth fragment showing a distinct crown and a weathered root area. The blade is smooth with no visible serrations, which is a key diagnostic feature for Mako-type sharks. The specimen appears to have a slight lateral curve and a dark, mineralized surface.
Rock Matrix
Specimen is fully extracted; likely originally from a phosphate-rich marine sediment, clay, or limestone layer.
Formation & Location
Likely sourced from Atlantic Coastal Plain deposits (e.g., Calvert Formation, Maryland or Bone Valley, Florida) or similar Miocene marine beds.
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 1.5 - 2.0 cm in length; small for the species, likely representing a juvenile or a secondary/posterior tooth position.
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$2 - $10 USD
Auction Estimate
$0 - $15 USD (typically sold in bulk lots)
Rarity Assessment
Common; isolated and weathered shark teeth are among the most frequently found vertebrate fossils in Cenozoic marine deposits.
Scientific Significance
Provides evidence of local paleo-biodiversity and marine apex predator distribution during the Neogene; helps in dating marine stratigraphic layers.
Preparation Recommendations
No further preparation is required. Store in a dry environment to prevent further degradation of the remaining root structure.
Notable Features
The dark, almost black patina is characteristic of fossils found in Atlantic 'black sand' coastal deposits; the smooth edges distinguish it from Carcharodon carcharias (Great White) teeth.