Are you an avid fossil collector and always looking for a new showpiece for your prehistoric collection? Then a Megalodon tooth is the fossil for you. After all, it is an incredibly impressive piece to add to your collection.
So why are these fossils so sought-after? Think about how big a Megalodon could really get - 18 metres long. It was truly one of the largest predators we have ever had on our planet. Besides, it was also the Apex predator of its time. This shark had nothing to fear but its peers, rivals or food shortages. It was a true menace and had absolutely no natural enemies. Now that you have heard a bit about this giant, you might be asking yourself how much a tooth should cost? Let's take a look at that together in this blog. We are going to look at what you should expect for certain price ranges, as well as the factors that determine the price.
What is a Megalodon tooth?
Of course, before we can determine the price of the Megalodon tooth, we need to take a look at what a Megalodon tooth actually is. So again, let's look at exactly what the Megalodon was. The Megalodon, also known as the Otodus megalodon, was a giant shark which lived between 23 and 3.6 million years ago and the Megalodon was the apex predator of the prehistoric oceans. The fossils we find of this mighty animal are found in places where the seas were at their warmest in prehistoric times, especially on the coastlines of the US, Morocco and also parts of Asia.
So what exactly is a Megalodon tooth? It is a relic of the past empire; a beautiful and also tangible piece of a long forgotten time. By the way, we know that sharks and thus the Megalodon changed its teeth with regularity, this results in the fact that teeth are found everywhere. What we must not forget is, although many are found there are factors that can significantly affect the value of a tooth.
Factors determining the price of a Megalodon tooth
We know that the price of a Megalodon tooth can vary tremendously, this of course depends tremendously on its size, quality but also its location and rarity. So let's take a closer look at each aspect and factor involved in the price of a Megalodon tooth.
The size of the tooth
This is of course no secret, the biggest factor involved in the price of a Megalodon tooth is its size. These can easily range from 4 cm to even 17 cm. Here, of course, the bigger the tooth the higher the price.
- Small teeth (up to and including 7 cm): These are the perfect teeth to start a collection with, this is because the smaller teeth are relatively cheap. In fact, they are found in larger numbers. These are then also the teeth you generally pay €50 to €100, for, it is still completely quality dependent.
- Medium-sized teeth (8-10 cm): When we start looking at this type of Megalodon teeth, we see that the price when it hits this class rises significantly. Here, teeth can quickly cost between €150 and €300.
- Large teeth (over 11 - 13 cm): These are the teeth that get a lot rarer inside the categories of Megalodontand.nl. Let's just say these teeth are a whole lot rarer, especially when complete. Here, the cost of large teeth more often ranges between €300 and €600. Sometimes they even cost a lot more.
- Giant teeth (14 - 17 cm): These are the rarest teeth in the fossil teeth series. In addition, these are also the largest fossils in the Megalodon teeth series. These teeth are often between 14 and 17 cm and can cost between €700 and €2000 or even much more.
The condition of the tooth
What you need to know is that not all Megalodon teeth are in perfect condition, they have been in the ground or in salt water for millions of years. It is an incredibly important factor within the pricing of Megalodon teeth. When a tooth is complete, has no damage to it and also has sharp serrations, you have a tooth that is invaluable and can actually increase in value tremendously.
- Perfect condition: Teeth that are in perfect condition can also be extremely valuable. They have their full original shape, with perfect enamel and root and also the sharp serrated edges. These are teeth that can easily run into thousands of dollars.
- Partially damaged: Here we see teeth that are missing serrations and or roots and may also show other wear. These are teeth that are generally offered at a much cheaper price. However, this depends entirely on the damage.
- Heavily worn: These are more often the teeth that are badly damaged, in pieces or just heavily worn. You will generally see these teeth sold for a fraction of the price.
The site
This also contributes hugely to the price, believe it or not. Megalodon teeth are found worldwide, yet there are several locations known for their better quality fossils.
- United States (South Carolina, Florida): This is where we see many of the best-preserved Megalodon teeth coming from. The teeth coming from the rivers of South Carolina and Florida are generally larger and also in better condition.
- Morocco: Megalodon teeth from Morocco are often smaller and in poorer condition, but still attractive to collectors. They usually sell for a lower price, making them the perfect option for the novice collector.
- Asia: Megalodon teeth are also found in Asia, especially in Indonesia. Although rarer on the market, they can be both cheap and pricey, depending on their condition. Here, we also see that the roots of the teeth are more often a lot more brittle. Therefore, this is where the roots are more often restored from. What is noticeable is that the edges of these teeth are really sharp.
The rarity
We see that as a rule, some Megalodon teeth are rarer than others, this is due to their size, location, condition and even colour. When all these conditions are perfect and you also have an exceptionally rare colour, then you are guaranteed to have a tooth of incredible value.
Are there any other features that could influence the price?
Yes indeed, in addition to the above-mentioned factors, we see that features such as the colour of the teeth can also pull significantly on the price. Think of teeth with bluish, green or even black colouring, these teeth are generally a lot more expensive than the more common and common grey colours. In addition, teeth of scientific value can also push up the price even further.
Fake or real? What should I look out for?
Where there is value and where there are fossils, fakes also occur. Here, more often than not, modern shark teeth will also be sold as Megalodon teeth, but fossils are also repaired and also sold as an undamaged tooth. Of course, this greatly harms the wonderful community of fossil collectors. We have therefore listed some points for you, so you can avoid this for yourself but also for others:
- Buy from reliable sellers: Remember that fossil sellers like us at Megalodontand.nl will also often issue a certificate of authenticity with our fossils, this when they are sold. Why? We stand fully behind our vendors and have full confidence in the authenticity of our products.
- Check the price: Pay close attention, if a deal is too good to be true then it often is. Megalodon teeth are often hugely expensive and a cheap specimen is often a fake too.
- Compare different sources: Compare prices of Megalodon teeth in the market and look closely at the value.
What can you expect when buying a Megalodon tooth?
When we look at buying a Megalodon tooth, we are looking at a relatively good investment to a fairly expensive undertaking. It completely depends on the tooth you are looking for and also the budget you have available. It makes absolutely no difference here whether you are a new collector or a seasoned collector. There is always a tooth available for you. So let's look together at the different expectations we may have:
Novice collectors: €50 - €200
If you are a novice collector and are going to buy a Megalodon tooth for the first time, there are an incredible number of different and also affordable options for you. This is the price range where you are more likely to find teeth between 4 and 10 cm at your disposal. These are also more often the price range where you will find teeth that have some damage, think broken off enamels, roots, half teeth and so much more. These are more often the budget teeth.
What can you expect in this category?
- Size and condition: These are more often the smaller teeth and also those that have suffered visible damage. For instance, they may have chipped edges as well as cracks. These are teeth that still have a true authentic and also impressive look despite the damage. It is the most affordable way to start collecting.
- Sites: Here you can see at many of these teeth come from the better-known deposits such as Florida and South Carolina in the United States, for example, but also from countries like Morocco. They may not be top quality, but they are still a true starting point for the beginner.
- Advantages: For the novice collector, this is the perfect opportunity to get introduced to fossil collecting. The prices make it possible for the novice collector to build a wonderful collection. In doing so, they then do not have to start a big risk.
Advanced collectors: €200 - €1000
If you are a more advanced collector, you are more likely to look for a tooth of better quality. These fall more in the middle section of 8 to 13 cm. Yes they overlap sizes here but 8 to 10 cm may also be considered the more advanced teeth. These teeth are often better preserved than the cheaper options and may still have their sharp edges and full roots.
What can you expect in this category?
- Size and condition: In this price range, the teeth tend to be larger and in better condition. You may still encounter some minor damage, but generally the teeth have retained their original shape. Many teeth still have sharp serrations. This means they have seen less wear and also that they are therefore of higher value.
- Unique features: Many of these teeth often have a more unique colour. This is more often a blue, black and sometimes even green colour. This is due to the minerals found in the ground, which greatly affect the colours. Blue, green or even red (orange) shades can give the tooth a unique look and increase its value.
- Sites: These rivers in South Carolina and Florida are famous for their well-preserved fossils. River beds and coastal areas in these regions often provide excellent preservation of teeth. This makes them a lot more attractive to collectors. Good-quality teeth are also found in areas such as Morocco, where fossils are often unearthed in large numbers.
Advantages
- Better state of preservation: Teeth in this price category usually retain their shape and often still have the sharp, jagged edges. This makes them more attractive to those who value appearance.
- Great variation in colour and shape: The teeth coming from this category are more often unique thanks to mineralisation, this can lead to distinct colours on the teeth. This makes the teeth visually incredibly attractive.
- Valuable investment: We see that in this category people are more willing to invest something, this is the category where you find teeth that are not just pretty to look at, but can also increase in value in the future.
Serious investors: €1000 - €10,000+
When we reach this price category, we are talking about the category where collectors purely go for the best of the best. These are Megalodon teeth that are truly considered museum pieces. These are teeth that are more often between 11 and 17 centimetres. These teeth are in perfect condition and are also extremely rare. This is the category where fossil prices can go up to thousands of euros. Of course, this depends entirely on the unique characteristics of the teeth.
What can you expect in this category?
- Size and condition: In this category, you will more often come across teeth that can be as large as 17 cm. These are teeth that are exceptionally rare and can also be a spectacular addition to any collection.
- Locations: Many of the most valuable teeth in this price range come from the rivers of South Carolina and sometimes from the coastal areas of North Carolina and Florida. These regions are known for their wealth of large, well-preserved Megalodon teeth.
- Unique features and rarity: This is the category where unique features such as, for example, the colour, size and also the condition of the tooth play a hugely important role. We more often see the rarer colours appear here such as blue, green or black, for example. These are teeth that are hugely sought-after and can sell for huge sums of money.
Advantages
- Unique and rare items: These are the teeth that are often the best of the best, looking at this market. The teeth are actually museum-worthy and a tooth of this calibre can instantly take any fossil collection to the next level.
- Potential increase in value: Because of their rarity and historical value, these teeth can be an interesting long-term investment. High-quality fossils remain popular among collectors and museums. The value of these types of teeth can almost only increase in the future.
- Prestige: Owning such a tooth is not only an investment, but also a way to impress other collectors and enthusiasts. It is a special and rare piece that often evokes admiration.
Conclusion
We at Megalodontand.nl know better than anyone how important the various factors are when determining the price of a tooth. In this determination, you often see the categories such as size, condition, find location and also rarity reflected. Are you a novice collector and looking for your first tooth? Then there is an incredible amount available under €200, while more rare and perfectly preserved specimens can be considerably more expensive. Are you planning to buy a tooth as an investment, or are you eager to own a piece of history? Pay close attention to the factors and decide for yourself which ones are most important to you. By paying attention to the quality, provenance and reliability of the seller, you can secure a valuable and beautiful addition to your collection.
A Megalodon tooth is not only an impressive fossil, but also tangible evidence of an era when giant predators ruled the oceans - making it a special acquisition for any collector.