How Are Fossil Megalodon Teeth Priced?
How Are Fossil Megalodon Teeth Priced?
This is one of the most common questions we hear from new collectors and seasoned enthusiasts alike: how much is a fossil Megalodon tooth worth? Pricing a fossil Megalodon tooth (or any fossil shark tooth) depends on several key factors, including location, color, quality, and size. Other elements, such as repair or restoration, pathological features, or rare traits, can also significantly affect value. Below, we break down exactly what determines Megalodon tooth value, so you can better understand pricing and make informed collecting decisions.
If you’re browsing with value in mind, you can explore our collection of authentic Megalodon teeth for sale to see how these factors influence real-world pricing.
Proper Measurement of a Fossil Megalodon Tooth
Accurate measurement is essential when determining Megalodon tooth value.
To measure correctly, start at the tip of the crown and measure diagonally to the longest root lobe (left or right). This diagonal measurement, known as slant height, is the industry standard and reflects the tooth’s true size. Straight vertical measurements are inaccurate and often misleading.
Location
Where a Megalodon tooth is found plays a major role in pricing.
Some fossil sites produce abundant teeth, while others are known for scarcity or have been closed entirely. A prime example is the Lee Creek Mine in Aurora, North Carolina, which is now closed. Megalodon Teeth from this locality are especially desirable due to the limited future supply.
Different regions also favor different species and tooth types. For instance:
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In Morocco, Hastalis mako and Otodus megalodon teeth are relatively rare
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In the Carolinas and Georgia, fossil Megalodon teeth are more abundant and often larger
Color
For many collectors, color directly affects what a Megalodon tooth is worth.
Certain locations, such as Bone Valley, Florida, produce Megalodon teeth in a wide range of colors. Even teeth from the same site can vary greatly in price due to coloration. Classic blue enamel with white roots is common, while rare orange, gold, or green hues can command a premium.
If you want a deeper dive into why color varies, see our article on why fossil Megalodon teeth have different colors.
Quality
The overall condition of a Megalodon tooth encompasses several aspects:
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Serrations: Sharp, well-defined serrations indicate minimal wear and add to the Megalodon tooth's value.
Root Integrity: An intact root without significant damage or cracks is desirable.
Enamel Condition: Megalodon Teeth with smooth, lustrous enamel free from peeling or flaking are preferred.
Bourlette Condition: The bourlette, the band between the root and enamel, plays a huge role in visual appeal. A full, undamaged bourlette often elevates a tooth’s desirability and price compared to worn or chipped examples.
Size
Size has a major impact on Megalodon tooth pricing, but rarity increases exponentially—not linearly.
- Under 5 inches: Common and widely available
- 5–5.75 inches: Increasingly rare and often expensive in high quality
- 6 inches+: Exceptionally rare “trophy” specimens
- 7 inches+: Only a handful are known worldwide
While larger teeth are generally worth more, size alone doesn’t determine value. Condition, color, and restoration status still matter.
Many collectors compare multiple sizes before deciding to buy a Megalodon tooth, rather than focusing on one size alone.
Repair vs. Restoration
These two terms are often confused, but they affect value differently.
Repair
A repaired Megalodon tooth has broken pieces reattached with adhesive. Repairs are usually visible upon close inspection and typically reduce the value compared to unrestored Megalodon teeth.
Restoration
Restoration involves reconstructing missing or damaged areas to improve appearance. High-quality restoration can look impressive, but fully restored Megalodon teeth are usually priced lower than untouched specimens.
We cover this topic in depth in our repair vs restoration Megalodon teeth guide.
Pathological Teeth
Pathological (deformed) Megalodon teeth are rare and highly specialized collectibles.
These deformities may include:
- Multiple tips
- Curved crowns
- Shrunken or asymmetrical roots
Are they worth more? Sometimes, but only to the right collector. Value depends on uniqueness, size, and overall condition.
Teeth with Pyrite
Pyrite (fool’s gold) can form on fossil Megalodon shark teeth during mineralization.
Pricing depends on:
- Amount of pyrite present
- Placement (enamel, root, or bourlette)
- Overall condition
Because pyrite Megalodon teeth are uncommon, they typically command higher prices than average specimens.
Final Thoughts on Megalodon Tooth Value
So, how much is a fossil Megalodon tooth worth? The answer depends on the full picture: size, color, condition, location, and authenticity.
Understanding these factors helps collectors avoid overpaying and better appreciate what makes each Megalodon tooth unique.
If you’re ready to start or refine your collection, Fossil Driven offers authentic Megalodon teeth for sale, all carefully evaluated for quality, preservation, and transparency.
Written by: Brandon Zulli, owner of fossildriven.com
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