3.48" Fossil Chubutensis Shark Tooth – Lee Creek, North Carolina
Own a remarkable piece of prehistoric shark evolution with this 3.48-inch fossil Chubutensis shark tooth, recovered from the world-famous Lee Creek Mine near Aurora, North Carolina. Lee Creek is one of the most scientifically important fossil localities in North America and is renowned for producing exceptionally preserved fossil shark teeth from the Miocene epoch.
This impressive specimen represents Otodus chubutensis, a powerful prehistoric shark widely regarded as the direct evolutionary ancestor of the Megalodon, making it an outstanding addition to any serious fossil or shark tooth collection.
Item Specifics
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Species: Otodus chubutensis
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Size: 3.48" × 2.74"
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Location: Lee Creek. North Carolina
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Geological Age: Miocene Epoch (~23–5 million years old)
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Condition: 100% natural fossil, no repair or restoration (see our Authenticity Guarantee)
About This Specimen
This high-quality Chubutensis tooth displays a broad triangular crown, well-defined serrations, and excellent overall preservation. Transitional in form, Otodus chubutensis teeth often combine Megalodon-like serrated cutting edges with the occasional presence of small side cusplets, a defining evolutionary trait linking earlier Otodus angustidens to later Otodus megalodon.
South Carolina fossils are especially valued for their durability and visual appeal, and this specimen offers both scientific significance and strong display presence for collectors and educators alike.
Where This Fossil Comes From
This tooth was recovered from the fossil-rich sediments of Lee Creek Mine in Aurora, North Carolina, a site internationally recognized for its abundance of marine fossils. During the Miocene epoch, this region was covered by a warm, shallow sea that supported a diverse ecosystem of large predatory sharks.
Over millions of years, shed shark teeth became buried in phosphate-rich sediments, preserving fine details such as serrations and enamel texture. Lee Creek fossils are now considered benchmark specimens within the fossil shark tooth collecting community due to their quality and historical significance.
About the Chubutensis Shark
Otodus chubutensis (historically classified as Carcharocles chubutensis) lived during the Miocene Epoch, approximately 23 to 5 million years ago, and represents a crucial evolutionary bridge between earlier giant sharks and the Megalodon. Estimated to reach lengths of up to 40 feet, this apex predator dominated prehistoric seas with powerful jaws and serrated teeth designed for slicing through large prey.
Its fossil teeth are among the most important in the shark fossil record, representing one of the final evolutionary steps before the rise of the Megalodon.
Why Collect This Tooth
- Genuine Lee Creek fossil Chubutensis shark tooth
- Transitional species and direct Megalodon ancestor
- Large 3.48-inch size with strong collector appeal
- Well-defined serrations and excellent preservation
- 100% authentic fossil with no repair or restoration
- Ideal for display, education, or serious fossil collections
Learn More & Explore Related Fossils
Interested in learning more about prehistoric sharks and fossil collecting? Explore our educational guides and related fossils to deepen your understanding and expand your collection:
- How to Spot Repaired or Restored Megalodon Teeth
- How Megalodon Teeth Are Priced
- Where Fossil Megalodon Teeth Are Found
- Browse Fossil Megalodon Teeth For Sale
- Explore Otodus Obliquus Shark Teeth
Authenticity & Buyer Confidence
All fossils offered by Fossil Driven are 100% natural and accurately represented. This specimen has been carefully inspected to confirm authenticity and condition.
- No repair or restoration
- Expertly verified by trusted fossil specialists
- 30-day return policy (minus shipping)
- Combined shipping available
- International shipping welcome (customs duties may apply)
Final Notes
Before the Megalodon ruled the oceans, Otodus chubutensis dominated prehistoric seas with teeth built for power and precision. This 3.48-inch fossil tooth from South Carolina is a rare and authentic relic of that evolutionary chapter — a striking reminder of how Earth’s most powerful marine predators evolved over time.
— Brandon Zulli & the Fossil Driven Team
