A 54-pound Martian meteorite—the largest ever discovered—will go under the hammer at Sotheby’s New York on July 16, with an estimated value of $2–4 million. Designated NWA 16788, this extraordinary space rock was unearthed in Niger’s Agadez region in late 2023 and represents a staggering 6.5% of all known Martian material on Earth.
A celestial rarity
Weighing 70% more than the next-largest Martian meteorite, NWA 16788 is hailed as the most valuable space rock ever auctioned. Meteorites are already rarer than diamonds, but Martian specimens are exceptionally scarce—only around 400 have been confirmed, most no larger than pebbles.
A violent journey through space
This meteorite was catapulted from Mars by an ancient asteroid collision before hurtling through space and crashing into Earth. Its glassy fusion crust—a telltale sign of its fiery atmospheric entry—bears witness to its incredible journey. Scientific analysis reveals traces of maskelynite, a high-pressure glass formed under extreme heat, further confirming its extraterrestrial origins.
Why this meteorite stands out
Cassandra Hatton, Sotheby’s VP of Science & Natural History, calls it a "once-in-a-generation discovery" that bridges humanity’s fascination with the Red Planet.
The space rock’s unprecedented Size, at around 54 pounds, dwarfs all other known Martian meteorites, it offers clues about Mars’ geology and ancient asteroid impacts, and could set a new record for meteorite sales.
Catch a glimpse before it sells
The meteorite will be on public display at Sotheby’s New York from July 8–15, ahead of the live auction on July 16.
For collectors, scientists, and space enthusiasts alike, this is a rare chance to own a tangible piece of Mars—one that has traveled millions of miles to reach Earth. Will it break records? The cosmos may soon decide.
