About Us

News Room | Rare fossil found

rare cow shark tooth

Symphyseal cow shark tooth found

boy finds rare fossil at Museum of Life and Science

Extremely rare fossil found at Museum's dig site

 
While digging through the fossil dig site at the Museum of Life and Science in Durham, 7-year-old Jesse from Havelock North Carolina, unearthed an extremely rare fossil, a  symphyseal cow shark tooth.  “Mom, look what I found. Something cool!” said an excited Jesse while running towards his mother. Overwhelmed with excitement, Jesse shared his find with fellow diggers with pride.

“I wasn’t sure what he found at first because it wasn’t listed on the Museum’s fossil identification chart. Jesse thought it was a devils ray. But I knew it wasn’t,” commented Amanda Duncan, Jesse’s mother.

Intrigued by Jesse’s find, upon returning home, Amanda searched the web for answers. When her search proved unsuccessful, she turned to an online fossil forum for help.

“I posted an image along with a description where the fossil was found and responses poured in. One collector described the piece as the “Holy Grail” of sharks teeth. Collectors were especially in awe by the fossil’s pristine condition. There are no teeth missing. This is a rare find,” commented Amanda.

One collector offered to purchase the fossil from the Duncan’s for $400. However, Amanda stated the fossil is such an important part of Jesse’s childhood, she will not sell it. In the meantime, the fossil is safely protected in a safe deposit box and the Duncan’s are talking with the Museum in hopes they will place the fossil on exhibit this summer. 

“I want other children to see it and learn from it,” said a proud Jesse.
ABOUT THE MUSEUM OF LIFE AND SCIENCE DIG SITE
According to the Museum of Life and Science, its dig site, which is part of the Dinosaur Trail, contains phosphate dirt from a mine in Aurora, North Carolina. While sifting through this fossil rich soil, Museum visitors are likely to find the remains of ancient sharks, whales, bony fish, corals, shells and other invertebrates that are 23 million to 5 million years old. To learn more about the Museum of Life and Science in Durham, visit lifeandsciece.org or call 919.220.5429. You may also visit the Museum at 433 W. Murray Avenue, Durham, North Carolina.