Sotheby’s Auctions Largest Martian Meteorite with Crypto Option

Key facts

NWA 16788: The largest known Martian meteorite, weighing 54 pounds (approx. 24.5 kg), discovered in Niger’s Agadez region in 2023.
Estimated Value: Between $2 million and $4 million.
Auction Date: July 16, 2024, during Sotheby’s Natural History sale.
Payment Method: Sotheby’s is accepting bids in Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and USDC, alongside traditional currency.

Quotes from the expert

Cassandra Hatton, Vice Chairman of Science and Natural History at Sotheby’s, stated: “Sotheby’s has accepted cryptocurrency for select sales since 2021. Given the global interest in rare meteorites and the tech-savvy audience they attract, it made sense to offer that option here.”

Historical comparison

This represents the highest estimated value for any Martian meteorite auctioned. In February 2021, Christie’s sold a small meteorite fragment for $40,000.

Sotheby’s crypto expansion

Sotheby’s continues to explore cryptocurrency for high-value items beyond meteorites. Recent examples include auctioning Bitcoin Ordinals (2023), Bored Ape Yacht Club NFTs (2024), and NBA Top Shot NFTs (2024).

Hatton emphasized, “We’ve had major, high-value lots paid for with cryptocurrency. The goal is to accommodate the widest group of potential bidders.”