Huge Rare 12" Fossil Squid Plesiotheuthis w Ink Sac Solnhofen Germany COA 4191

Description

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this specimen.
Here is a rare fossil squid from the world famous fossil beds of Solnhofen, Germany.  It is a Plesiotheuthis prisca, and the squid itself measures an incredible 12 inches.  The Ink sac is also exposed, about two thirds down the body of the squid.  Much internal soft tissue is also visible.
This squid lived in the Jurassic age, about 150 million years ago. The Solnhofen area was then an archipelago at the edge of an ocean or sea.  High salt content in the water near the limestone made for only a little life, which caused it to be low in oxygen. This meant fewer scavengers, allowing a number of animals and plants to fossilize in excellent condition.
The plate this squid is on is quite thin. The plate is about 17" by 11.8" (irregular shape) and is between 6 and 7 mm. thick. The plate is 3 smaller plates that were broken at the time of excavation and are therefore repaired.  Extra caulk was used on the back side, especially where the ink sac is, to stabilize the piece.
There are a couple of dendrites on cracks in the front that are quite nice.
This specimen will last a long, long time if you put it on a stand and do not handle it harshly.  We will send you a stand free, to set it on.
A very interesting and uncommon piece from this wonderful Lagerstätte in Solnhofen, Germany.
We are happy to enclose a COA (Certificate of Authenticity).  Some words of caution about COA’s: Do not let them become a substitute for learning about the specimens. We have been working with fossils and minerals for many years, and we have seen hundreds of very nice-looking COA’s, some that are wrong, mis-describing a specimen. In addition, the person selling the item is often the one who writes the COA (potential conflict of interest). Finally, a COA, without a photo of the exact item on the COA itself,  is worthless, as it can later be placed next to any other fossil or mineral.  We suggest that in addition to relying on a COA, that people read and study the subject.
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With this type of specimen, a tiny number of particles may come off in shipping, but not enough to hurt the beauty of the piece.  We wrap these very carefully and securely.  If this does not work with you, please do not order.
4191.JYGF!UYF%TXYTD  storage PHTORMRCK on top of some Morocco Flats