Fossil Shark Tooth (Eroded)
Indeterminate Lamniform shark (aff. Carcharodon or aff. Otodus) • Body fossil, Vertebrate (Chondrichthyes)
Geological Period
Likely Neogene to Paleogene (Miocene or Pliocene)
Estimated Age
5 to 25 million years
Preservation Type
Permineralization with significant phosphatization and subsequent high-energy hydraulic abrasion
Condition Assessment
Poor; the specimen is heavily weathered, beach-worn or river-worn, missing the sharp blade and distinct root lobes
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum: Chordata, Class: Chondrichthyes, Order: Lamniformes, Family: Otodontidae or Lamnidae
Morphological Description
A heart-shaped or triangular specimen showing a broadly convex root area and a tapered, though highly abraded, crown. The specimen lacks distinct enameloid surfaces or serrations due to significant water-worn erosion.
Rock Matrix
None (isolated specimen), likely originally from offshore marine phosphates or calcarenites
Formation & Location
Commonly found in the Peace River (Florida) or Calvert Cliffs (Maryland), USA
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 2-3 cm in length; typical for medium-sized predatory shark teeth fragments
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$1 - $5 USD
Auction Estimate
$0 - $10 USD (of negligible auction interest as a single lot)
Rarity Assessment
Common; very high density of similar eroded fragments in Cenozoic marine deposits
Scientific Significance
Low; provides evidence of marine presence in a region but lacks diagnostic features for precise biochronological or evolutionary study
Preparation Recommendations
No further mechanical preparation advised; clean with soft brush and water, keep dry in a small case
Notable Features
Highly polished, dark surface sheen (patina) characteristic of phosphate-rich sedimentary environments and hydraulic polishing