Fossil Fish Skin / Scalation
Indeterminate primitive fish cf. Osteolepis or similar crossopterygian • Body fossil, vertebrate remains showing scale impression and preservation
Geological Period
Devonian or Carboniferous
Estimated Age
360 to 415 million years
Preservation Type
Permineralization and replacement with iron oxides within a sedimentary nodule
Condition Assessment
Good, showing clear scale patterns with some surface abrasion and missing central sections
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum Chordata, Subphylum Vertebrata, Class Sarcopterygii or Actinopterygii (likely primitive bony fish or lobe-finned fish)
Morphological Description
Exhibits a large patch of tightly interlocking, rectangular to rhomboid scales arranged in orderly diagonal rows, characteristic of primitive ganoid or cosmoid scales
Rock Matrix
Fine-grained ferruginous siltstone or sandstone matrix with iron-oxide staining
Formation & Location
Old Red Sandstone formation, UK, or similar Devonian fluvio-lacustrine deposits globally
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 10 cm in length by 5 cm in width
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$100 - $250
Auction Estimate
$150 - $300
Rarity Assessment
Uncommon
Scientific Significance
Provides valuable insight into early vertebrate dermal skeleton evolution and ancient freshwater ecosystems
Preparation Recommendations
Mechanical cleaning using a pin vice or micro-blaster at low pressure; store in stable humidity and temperature conditions
Notable Features
Exceptionally clear, grid-like geometric arrangement of individual scales with preserved amber-brown coloration due to iron staining