16 July 2025
A colossal piece of Mars is set to make space history — right here on Earth.
The rare Martian meteorite, known as NWA 16788, is going up for auction today at Sotheby’s in New York, where it’s expected to sell for a staggering $2–4 million (£1.5–3 million).
Weighing an impressive 25 kilograms, the massive rock is the largest known piece of Mars ever discovered, and experts believe it could attract fierce bidding from collectors, museums, and science institutions across the globe.
“This Martian meteorite is the largest piece of Mars we have ever found — by a long shot,” said Cassandra Hatton, vice chairman for science and natural history at Sotheby’s. “It’s more than double the size of what we previously thought was the largest.”
Discovered in Niger in 2023
The otherworldly relic was uncovered in the Sahara Desert region of Niger just two years ago. Measuring 15 x 11 x 6 inches, NWA 16788 is not only physically massive — it also holds rare scientific value.
The meteorite makes up around 7% of all known Martian material currently on Earth, making it a once-in-a-lifetime acquisition for anyone who can afford it.
A Meteorite With Martian Origins
NWA 16788 is believed to have been blasted off the surface of Mars millions of years ago following a powerful asteroid impact. It eventually traveled through space before falling to Earth, where it was later discovered.
The specimen’s authenticity has been confirmed through isotopic and mineral analysis, which matched the meteorite’s composition with that of rock samples collected on Mars by NASA’s rovers and orbiters.
An Auction of Cosmic Proportions
The meteorite is the star attraction in Sotheby’s natural history-themed auction, where it will be sold alongside other rare gems of Earth and space.
While Martian meteorites have appeared in auctions before, none come close to matching NWA 16788in terms of size, weight, or scientific significance.
Hatton added, “This is truly a collector’s dream — a piece of another planet you can hold in your hand.”
Bidding begins today, and one lucky buyer may soon be able to say they own the biggest slice of Mars on Earth.
