Are meteorites sold at auction?
Yes. Major auction houses hold sales of meteorites, especially large irons, pallasites, lunar and Martian specimens and historic falls, alongside dealers and online sales.
Meteorites are sold in several ways, and auctions are one of them.
Major auction houses. Since the early 2000s, several international auction houses have held sales of meteorites, sometimes as part of natural history or science sales. They often feature impressive specimens, such as large iron meteorites, etched slices, pallasites, oriented individuals, lunar and Martian meteorites, and pieces of historic falls. Some auctions have attracted public attention when spectacular pieces sold.
Specialist auctions. Some auction houses and dealers hold sales focused specifically on meteorites and space-related items.
Online auctions. Online marketplaces also host meteorite sales, but quality and authenticity vary greatly. Buyers should be cautious and buy only from sellers with good reputations, clear descriptions and official names.
What to check before bidding. - The official name and classification, verified against the official meteorite list. - Provenance: where and when it was found, and its ownership history. - Legality: whether it was legally collected and exported. - Condition: photographs of all sides, any rust or damage, and whether it has been treated or coated. - Fees: buyer's premiums, taxes and shipping costs.
Selling at auction. For owners, auctions can reach many buyers, but fees and uncertainty about final prices should be considered. Getting a valuation from a specialist first helps.
Ethical considerations. Some scientists worry that high prices encourage illegal collecting and export, or that important specimens may disappear into private collections. Responsible auction houses check provenance and legality.
As with any purchase, research carefully before bidding.