Stegosaurus Dorsal Plate

Stegosaurus Dorsal Plate

Stegosaurus stenops

Late Jurassic (approx. 150 million years ago)

Morrison Formation, Bone Cabin Quarry, Albany County, Wyoming, USA

Stegosaurus dorsal plate (25 x 24 x 1½ inches, 63.5 x 61 x 3.8 cm), on custom metal stand with a footprint measuring 28 x 10 inches (71.1 x 25.4 cm). 55 pounds (24.9 kg).

The dermal plate is complete and preserved in exquisite detail without restoration, exhibiting little distortion, and retaining much of its original shape and surface characteristics. Foramina and grooves are discernable, with the basal region intact and being characteristically rugose. The thin edge along the upper section of the plate is virtually complete including its tapering bladelike extension. The bladelike extension may be a diagnostic feature of the species or sexual dimorphism.

The fossilization is superb, thoroughly mineralized, and dense. Its surface coloration is greyish brown to black, colors consistent with fossils originating from the Morrison Formation. Judging from the overall size and degree of the bone development it appears that the plate belonged to a large, robust adult individual.

This desirable specimen is handsomely mounted in an upright position on a custom-made black metal armature.