Rare Fossils, Mammoths, and Prehistoric Wonders Available for Auction in the UK

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Auction Event for Paleontology Lovers

On May 13, 2025, an exciting auction titled "Parnham Park: A Modern Grand Tour" will take place at the historic Parnham Park estate in Dorset, England. This antique estate, famous for its stunning architecture, has been transformed into a showcase for one of the most remarkable paleontological sales of recent years.

The Historic Venue

Parnham Park, originally a 16th-century manor, has undergone significant renovations led by architect John Nash, the same architect responsible for Buckingham Palace's renovation. Currently owned by James Perkins, a prominent artist and collector known in the UK entertainment scene, the estate backs onto the iconic Jurassic Coast, an area rich in prehistoric treasures.

Perkins’s transformation of Parnham Park into a modern cabinet of curiosities highlights his unique taste and passion for Earth's ancient past. This collection not only offers a glimpse into prehistoric life but also serves as a potential museum acquisition opportunity that rarely surfaces in the auction world.

Featured Fossils: A Glimpse into the Past

With the auction fast approaching, anticipation is building around several exceptional pieces that reflect the history of life on Earth.

1. Complete Woolly Mammoth Skeleton
Touted as the auction's crown gem, this well-preserved mammoth skeleton stands at over 10 feet. For paleontological collectors, it represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to possess such a significant artifact, with starting bids expected to be around $250,000 to $380,000.

2. Ichthyosaur Specimens
Known as "The King of the Jurassic Sea," two ichthyosaur fossils are significant highlights thanks to their remarkable condition and visual appeal. These ancient marine reptiles were among the first fossils to be scientifically documented in Europe. Starting bids for each specimen are projected to range between $150,000 and $230,000.

3. Irish Deer Skull
Featuring an impressive skull with antlers spanning nearly 8 feet, this fossil belongs to an extinct deer species that once grazed across Eurasia during the Pleistocene. It's fascinating to note that the last populations persisted in Western Russia until about 7,700 years ago. Its starting bid will lie between $20,000 and $26,000.

4. Fossilized Palm Frond
Coming from Wyoming, this exquisitely preserved fossilized palm frond dates back around 50 million years when tropical forests flourished across much of North America, including Alaska. Expect starting bids for this piece to fall between $20,000 and $33,300.

These remarkable items not only possess immense scientific value but are also likely to attract enthusiastic attention from collectors and museums from around the globe.

Bidding Process and Details

For U.S. participants, the bidding will commence online through Dreweatts’ website at 5:30 AM EST on May 13, 2025. Given the exceptional nature of the items offered, early viewing is strongly recommended, as many of these artifacts are expected to garner international interest.

About Dreweatts

Established in 1759, Dreweatts stands as one of the leading auction houses in the UK, featuring a diverse array of 22 departments, including but not limited to Fine Art, Jewellery and Watches, and Decorative Art. With a well-regarded track record of conducting over 70 specialised sales annually, Dreweatts showcases items that range from single-owner collections to significant curated sales.

This auction represents a unique convergence of art, history, and science, providing collectors with a rare chance to immerse themselves in the wonders of our planet’s prehistoric narrative. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary event!