A fossilized mammoth tooth provides a tangible connection to the Ice Age, and its value is highly variable. While many people think of mammoth ivory from tusks, the teeth typically recovered are molars, which were used for grinding tough vegetation. The financial worth of a single mammoth molar ranges from negligible value to several thousand dollars at auction. This wide range depends on a combination of specific physical characteristics and legal factors that determine its desirability to collectors.
Identifying the Specimen
The initial step in assessing any fossil is confirming its identity, which relies heavily on the molar’s distinct structure. Mammoth molars are characterized by their broad, thin crowns composed of numerous tightly packed, ridged enamel plates. This ridged structure helped the massive herbivores grind down abrasive grasses and plants. This appearance stands in sharp contrast to the molars of the contemporary Mastodon, which instead feature cone-shaped cusps.
Identifying the specific species of mammoth, such as the Woolly Mammoth (Mammuthus primigenius) or the larger Columbian Mammoth (Mammuthus columbi), further influences value. Paleontologists often determine the species by counting the number of enamel ridges, as earlier species tend to have fewer ridges than later ones. A specimen that is clearly identifiable and well-differentiated from other proboscidean fossils will generally hold greater interest and value in the market.
Key Factors Driving Valuation
The monetary worth of a mammoth tooth is determined by its condition, completeness, and size. A molar that is fully intact, exhibiting a complete crown and root structure, is significantly more valuable than fragmented or heavily worn pieces. Since mammoths went through six sets of molars in their lifetime, the degree of wear on the chewing surface is a major factor. Lightly used or full adult molars are the most sought after.
Larger, heavier molars, particularly those from the massive adult stage, naturally command higher prices. A tooth’s aesthetic appeal is enhanced if it has been professionally cleaned, stabilized with resins, and prepared for display. Documentation regarding the specimen’s provenance, detailing where and when it was found, adds scientific and historical value. Rarer species, or teeth still embedded within a section of the jawbone, also increase the specimen’s scarcity and price.
The Legal Landscape of Sale
The legal framework governing the sale of mammoth teeth is a crucial component of their market value. The trade of mammoth fossils is generally legal because the species is not covered by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). CITES is designed to protect currently endangered species, not those that have been extinct for millennia.
The international export and import of mammoth specimens can still be subject to complex regulations, particularly in countries like Russia, the primary source for many fossils. Certain U.S. states and countries have also implemented laws that regulate or ban the sale of mammoth ivory and teeth, often to prevent the “laundering” of illegal elephant ivory. To realize the full market value of a high-quality tooth, clear legal documentation confirming its origin and compliance with local laws is often necessary.
Current Market Price Ranges
The price a collector can expect to pay or receive for a mammoth tooth varies according to the factors mentioned above. At the low end, small fragments, heavily worn pieces, or molars in poor condition typically sell for $20 to $100. Mid-range specimens, which are partial but clearly recognizable and suitable for display, generally fall between $150 and $400.
Complete, well-preserved, and large molars represent the high end of the collector market and are usually priced from $500 to $1,500. Exceptionally large specimens that are perfectly preserved, such as a complete adult molar with an intact root, can easily exceed $5,000. This is especially true if they are sold through high-end auction houses or specialized dealers. Any seller dealing with a potentially high-value specimen should seek a professional appraisal to accurately determine its worth.