Lot 1442
55.75 Pound Campo del Cielo Meteorite. This huge 12 x 7 x 9 inch 55.75 pound iron-nickel meteorite is not only one of the heaviest complete meteorites that we have auctioned, but also one of the most aesthetically pleasing with a plethora of regmaglypts. Resembling thumbprints, regmaglypts form when the meteorite enters the atmosphere at a high velocity, creating very high temperatures that selectively melt the pockets of Troilite (iron sulfide) much more readily than the iron-nickel matrix.
Known as Campo del Cielo (Field of the Sky), these meteorites fell over 4,000 years ago in Gran Chaco Gualamba, Argentina and were first written about in 1576 by the Spanish governor who learned about them from the local Indians who believed that the iron stones fell from the sky. A large 60 ton meteorite known as Meson de Fiero (large table of iron) was sent back by ship to Spain and melted down. The best specimens of Campos, such as this one, are known as "New Campos" as they are found higher up in the mountains and have not been worn down by rusting from rain water. This attractively sculpted example can be displayed in several different positions and is highly desirable for both its large size and its beauty.
Add $75.00 for domestic shipping.
Estimated Value $4,000 - 5,000.
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| Realized $3,335 |
