Lot 928
Own A Piece Of A Comet. The Murchison meteorite is one of the most important and well studied meteorites ever discoverd. Murchison meteorites landed in Australia in 1969 and were found to be the most primitive meteorites known, virtually unchanged since they formed at the same time as the solar system 4.57 billion years ago. Murchison meteorites contain 12 per cent water and many organic compaunds which makes it very different from most of the meteorites which originate in the asteroid belt. NASA planetary scientist consider Murchison to be cometary in origin being a piece of the comet nucleus which broke off during a comets journey around the sun. What makes Murchison even more special is that it contains over 80 different amino acids. On earth are only 19 Amino acids that make up all living creatures while Murchison contains these 19 plus 61 different amino acids.The presence of amino acids in a meteorite gives us a good idea as the possible source of the building blocks of life. In earth's early history there was a tremendous bombardment of meteorites and most if not all of the water found on earth today may have originated in comets. This sizable specimen of Murchison weighs 2.1 grams and is 14 mm x 11 mm hosued in a special membrane box for observation on all sides. The meteorite is a black color with lighter gray spherical chondrules. Most specimens of Murchison offered are much smaller size due to the high value and desirability of this famous and important meteorite. Also housed in 4 x 3 inch Riker Mount.
Add $15.00 for domestic shipping.
Estimated Value $500 - 600.
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| Realized $437 |
