Huge Gold Nugget found by metal detector enthusiasts, now leads to Auction, Starting Bid $400,000

Evelyn

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An extraordinary 10-pound gold nugget, along with a triceratops nasal horn and a fossilized horse skull, will be up for auction on April 23 at the Heritage Auctions 2025 Nature & Science Signature® Auction. These remarkable discoveries, which include some of the rarest natural treasures on Earth, are set to spark excitement among collectors and enthusiasts alike.

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The “Golden Beauty” – an immense and lustrous gold nugget – was discovered in 1979 by John and Frances Aggiss while they were casually using a metal detector in the Kalgoorlie Goldfields of Western Australia. What started as a leisurely search for gold turned into an astonishing find, with the nugget emerging as the largest to come from the region in over fifty years. As of now, the bid for this exceptional specimen stands at $400,000.

The Remarkable Discovery

John and Frances Aggiss, ordinary treasure hunters turned extraordinary finders, unearthed the Golden Beauty while out on a routine search. What they stumbled upon was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Weighing in at over 145 troy ounces (approximately 10 pounds) and measuring nearly 7.5 inches, this rare nugget is considered one of the largest to have ever come from the Kalgoorlie Goldfields.

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Gold, known for its intrinsic beauty and immense value, remains one of the most sought-after metals in the world. According to Craig Kissick, Vice President of Nature and Science at Heritage Auctions, gold’s appeal stems not only from its rarity but also from its enduring allure. He explains that the total amount of gold ever mined could fit into a cube of just 22 meters (72 feet) on each side. In its natural form, gold is even rarer, as much of it has been melted down and refined into coins, jewelry, and other precious items.

The Golden Beauty was once part of a private Swiss collection and is celebrated for its sheer size and rarity,” Kissick said. “Finding a nugget of any size is a remarkable feat, but to discover one of this magnitude is beyond exceptional.”

A Rare Treasure

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In terms of rarity, the Golden Beauty is comparable to a five-carat diamond, and to put its value into perspective, a gold nugget weighing only one troy ounce is already considered incredibly rare. For many treasure hunters, the Golden Beauty is the elusive find of a lifetime.

“There are those who have spent their entire lives searching for gold and never come close to discovering something of this caliber,” said Kissick. The auction promises to provide a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of history that will undoubtedly be the centerpiece of any collection.

Additional Items In The Auction

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In addition to the Golden Beauty, several other extraordinary items will also be available for bidding. One such item is a smaller golden nugget weighing 15.52 troy ounces, about one pound, which was donated anonymously to the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign in December 2024. The proceeds from this remarkable nugget will benefit the Salvation Army’s Annual National Commander’s Red Kettle Challenge in 2025, making it not just a valuable artifact but a charitable contribution as well.

Fossils and Meteorites

The auction also boasts a variety of prehistoric and cosmic wonders. One such item is a stunning ammonite fossil from the Bearpaw Formation in Alberta, Canada. Measuring 13 inches and exhibiting distinctive predation marks, this fossil is unique not only for its size and beauty but also for the iridescent colors that shimmer across its surface. The fossil’s circular dots suggest that a mosasaur, a predatory marine reptile, once took bites from the ammonite, leaving behind these distinctive marks.

Ammonite Fossil

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Ammonites are an extinct group of marine mollusks that lived millions of years ago. This ammonite, however, is classified both as a fossil and a gemstone due to its radiant iridescence. Its intricate markings and the interplay of colors make it an item of exceptional scientific and aesthetic value, perfect for collectors of both natural history and fine gemstones.

Other Rarities

The auction also features a sword named Ekleipsis, crafted by artist Tristain Dare using meteorites, and a variety of other meteorites. Additionally, a beautiful backgammon set, made from a combination of malachite, chrysocolla, pietersite, corundum, and magnesite, will be available for bidding. The pieces, made from a variety of minerals, offer a unique and artistic interpretation of a traditional game.

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The backgammon set, with its intricate mineral pieces and striking design, is a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship that can emerge when art and nature combine. This rare set is sure to attract the attention of both collectors of unusual games and those who appreciate the beauty of gemstones and minerals.

Conclusion

As Heritage Auctions prepares for the 2025 Nature & Science Signature® Auction, the treasures on offer are sure to captivate a wide audience. From the monumental Golden Beauty gold nugget to the rare ammonite fossil, these items provide an extraordinary glimpse into the wonders of nature and the cosmos. Whether for their scientific importance, historical value, or sheer beauty, these rare items promise to be highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts from around the world.

FAQs

What is the ‘Golden Beauty’ nugget?

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The ‘Golden Beauty’ is a 10-pound gold nugget discovered in 1979 in the Kalgoorlie Goldfields of Western Australia by John and Frances Aggiss. It is one of the largest nuggets found in the region in over half a century.

How much is the ‘Golden Beauty’ expected to sell for?

At the time of writing, the current bid for the ‘Golden Beauty’ gold nugget stands at $400,000, with expectations that the price may climb further during the auction.

Where and when is the nugget being auctioned?

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The nugget will be auctioned at the Heritage Auctions 2025 Nature & Science Signature® Auction, scheduled for April 23.

Are there other items besides the gold nugget at the auction?

Yes, the auction also features rare fossils, meteorites, a sword crafted from meteorite materials, and a gemstone-based backgammon set, among other natural and scientific rarities.

What makes the ammonite fossil special?

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The ammonite fossil on offer comes from the Bearpaw Formation in Alberta, Canada. It is 13 inches wide, displays iridescent colors, and bears predation marks likely caused by a mosasaur. It is also uniquely classified as both a fossil and a gemstone.

Evelyn

As a Chicago-based freelance writer, I specialize in crafting compelling content across various platforms, including blogs, social media and both digital and print publications. My portfolio reflects my ability to adapt my writing style to meet the unique needs of each project, delivering engaging and effective content that resonates with target audiences. Passionate about storytelling and effective communication, I am committed to producing high-quality work that aligns with readers objectives.

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