In a surprising turn of events, billionaire investor Ken Griffin made headlines by purchasing a late Jurassic stegosaurus skeleton for a staggering $44.6 million at Sotheby’s auction. This marked a historic moment as it became the most valuable fossil ever sold at auction. Griffin, the founder and CEO of hedge fund Citadel, surpassed all expectations by acquiring the 150 million-year-old stegosaurus named “Apex.” The skeleton measures 11 feet tall and nearly 27 feet long from nose to tail, comprising 254 fossil bone elements. What was more astonishing is that Apex was initially estimated to sell for a mere $6 million, but the final bidding war propelled the price to unprecedented heights.
Griffin’s Generosity towards American Institutions
It is not the first time that Ken Griffin has shown his inclination towards supporting American institutions. Following his successful bid for the stegosaurus skeleton, Griffin expressed his intention to loan the specimen to a U.S. institution. This gesture highlights his commitment to preserving and showcasing important pieces of history within the country. Griffin’s philanthropic endeavors are not limited to paleontology, as evidenced by his previous contributions to cultural and educational institutions. In 2018, he generously gifted $16.5 million to Chicago’s Field Museum to aid in the display of a touchable cast of the largest dinosaur ever discovered. This illustrates Griffin’s deep appreciation for science, history, and the arts.
Griffin’s Remarkable Acquisitions
The acquisition of the stegosaurus skeleton adds to Ken Griffin’s impressive collection of rare and valuable items. In 2021, he made headlines once again by outbidding a group of cryptocurrency investors to secure a first-edition copy of the U.S. Constitution for $43.2 million. This move showcased Griffin’s determination and willingness to invest in historically significant artifacts. Notably, he later loaned the U.S. Constitution to the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Arkansas, allowing a wider audience to appreciate and learn from this important document. Griffin’s acquisitions go beyond personal gain, reflecting his desire to contribute to the cultural enrichment of society at large.
Ken Griffin’s purchase of the $44.6 million stegosaurus skeleton not only broke records but also shed light on his passion for history and science. His decision to acquire and potentially share such a valuable piece with U.S. institutions demonstrates his dedication to the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage. Griffin’s actions serve as a reminder of the importance of supporting and showcasing artifacts that hold significant historical value. By investing in relics of the past, individuals like Ken Griffin play a pivotal role in enriching our understanding of the world and preserving its diverse and fascinating history.