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Edestus heinrichi

SKU

I08

In stock

$225.00

Overview

A very rare, LARGE, Top Quality Edestus heinrichi shark tooth, from Herrin, Illinois. This is a Paleozoic shark that lived in swamps that our now underground coal deposits. Excellent crown enamel. Excellent preservation, serrations, and serration detail. The Edestus shark would have an upper and lower tooth whorl that are vertically opposed. Research showed that they could use their opposing teeth in a scissor-like motion or a vertical whipping motion to cut prey. It is the first animal to cut vertically. A very strange looking and unique acting shark. Shark recreation image is credited to Julio Lacerdo. These rare teeth are Pennsylvanian age from Illinois. No repair or restoration. Authenticity guaranteed.

I08 SIZE: 3-1/8" w/ root (1-3/8" crown)

Adding 22 Edestus shark teeth in July 2025. Link to Edestus shark.

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Details

The Edestus heinrichi is the Coal shark or "scissor shark" tooth, is a rare Pennsylvanian age sharks found in an underground coal mines in Illinois. Edestus heinrichi tooth exhibits a unique broad symmetrical triangular crown with huge serrations. The roots are also quite unique as they appear as long arms with the crown at the end. The root would stack and interlock to form a "tooth whorl" which are placed vertically at the center line of the upper and lower jaws. A whorl could include 5-10 or more crowns. A very strange arrangement of teeth which would be used to slice prey. These teeth are well preserved. These teeth are from the Anna Shale Fm. (Carbondale Group) - approx. 300 million years in age. It is always difficult locating these rare teeth.