Sotheby’s auction, which will take place as early as July 16, 2025, will feature an unusual exhibit. Probably the only one of its kind on Earth. Under the hammer will go the largest known piece of Mars on Earth – the unique meteorite NWA 16788, which is attracting the attention of collectors, museums and space enthusiasts from around the world.
A piece of Mars – the price and the chance of a record
The estimated price of this unearthly exhibit is between $2 million and $4 million, but it is already clear that the interest is enormous – the first official bids have reached $1.6 million. Considering the scale of uniqueness and prestige Sotheby’s auction, there are many indications that the final price may be even higher.
The largest piece of Mars on Earth – exhibit description
The NWA 16788 meteorite is a true geological gem. It weighs as much as 24.67 kilograms and measures nearly 15 inches long (374.7 mm). Covered with a distinctive reddish-brown melt crust formed during its flight through the atmosphere, it hides a fascinating history – it was ejected from the surface of Mars as a result of a massive asteroid impact and traveled through space for millions of years before landing in the Sahara Desert.
What else makes it special? It’s olivine-microgabbroic shergottite, a rare type of Martian magma rock. It contains as much as 21.2% maskelynite. A glaze formed due to extreme pressure and temperature. Scientists stress that this type of meteorite is only a fraction of all known Martian fragments.
Interest is growing worldwide
NWA 16788 has been covered by major media covering science, art and collecting. The exhibit has already been presented to the public. Among others, the show was held at the headquarters of the Italian Space Agency in Rome during the European Night of Scientists. The next one was held at a gallery in Tuscany. This further raised its profile and prestige.
For many collectors, a piece of Mars is not only a museum object, but also a symbol of human fascination with space and proof of how far the limits of our exploration reach.
A piece of Mars on the shelf – a collector’s dream
Regardless of who ultimately bids for NWA 16788, one thing is certain. A piece of Mars on a shelf or in a museum is something that sparks the imagination. It perfectly combines science, the history of the Universe and unique prestige.
The auction will take place on July 16, 2025. Meanwhile, it is already safe to say that this will be one of the most exciting events of the year for all lovers of space and unique objects. Therefore, this auction is not to be missed.
