Sand Tiger Shark Tooth
Carcharias cf. taurus (or potentially Striatolania sp. depending on striation depth) • Body fossil (vertebrate dental remains)
Geological Period
Neogene (Miocene to Pliocene)
Estimated Age
5 to 23 million years
Preservation Type
Permineralization / Replacement by phosphate and iron minerals
Condition Assessment
Good; the enameloid and cusp are well-preserved, but the root shows significant weathering and missing lateral cusplets.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum: Chordata, Class: Chondrichthyes, Order: Lamniformes, Family: Odontaspididae, Genus: Carcharias
Morphological Description
Elongated, slender central cusp with sharp edges and distinct vertical lingual striations (grooves) extending from the base. The root is robust and bifurcated with a prominent lingual protuberance and a deep nutritive groove. Small lateral cusplets appear to be missing or weathered.
Rock Matrix
None (isolated specimen), though surface coloration suggests an environment rich in phosphate or organic-rich marine silts.
Formation & Location
Commonly found in the Yorktown Formation (Virginia/North Carolina) or the Bone Valley Formation (Florida), USA.
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 1.5 to 2.5 cm in slant height; typical for an adult sand tiger anterior tooth.
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $15.00 USD
Auction Estimate
$10.00 - $25.00 USD (typically sold in bulk lots at auction)
Rarity Assessment
Common; sand tiger teeth are among the most frequently discovered shark fossils in Atlantic coastal deposits.
Scientific Significance
Provides data on Miocene/Pliocene marine biodiversity and the evolutionary stability of the Odontaspididae family in warm-temperate coastal waters.
Preparation Recommendations
Light cleaning with water and a soft brush; no chemical stabilizers required. Store in a dry, UV-protected environment.
Notable Features
Distinctive vertical striations on the lingual face which characterize the 'striated' variety of sand tiger teeth.