Representative ImageShark Teeth
·Real Fossil
Otodus Shark Tooth
- Real Fossil
- 60 to 45 million years
- Ships worldwide
£7.50
● In stock — dispatched within 2 working days
A striking fossil tooth from a prehistoric apex predator that ruled the oceans 50 million years ago. Perfect for new and seasoned collectors alike.
Specimen Record
DTF-2E381788Representative image
Photographs show a typical example. Your item will be similar but not identical.
- Species
- Otodus obliquus
- Identification confidence
- Not recorded
- Age
- 60 to 45 million years
- Geological period
- Paleocene to Eocene
- Formation
- Phosphate deposits of the Ouled Abdoun Basin (likely)
- Locality
- Morocco
- Dimensions
- Not recorded
- Weight
- Not recorded
Condition & Treatment
- Repair
- Not recorded
- Restoration
- Not recorded
- Stabilisation
- Not recorded
- Polishing
- Not recorded
- Composite
- Not recorded
"Not recorded" means we hold no verified record for that detail — it is not a claim either way.
Curator Note
These specimens are notable for their ‘complete’ anatomy, featuring the primary crown and the secondary side cusps which are often lost in lesser-quality finds. The preservation of the root structure provides a tactile sense of the immense jaw power these predators possessed.
At a Glance
Type
Genuine fossil
Display
Excellent for desk or shelf display; fits well in standard gem jars or small stands.
About This Fossil
The Otodus obliquus was a formidable apex predator that dominated the marine ecosystems of the Paleocene and Eocene epochs, following the extinction of the dinosaurs. As a key ancestor in the megatooth shark lineage—the same evolutionary path that eventually produced the legendary Megalodon—this species reached gargantuan proportions. These specimens are characterised by their thick, triangular central crowns and robust root structures, flanked by distinctive lateral cusplets that define the genus.
Unlike their later descendants, the teeth of Otodus obliquus possess smooth, unserrated cutting edges. This gives the fossil a refined, elegant aesthetic while remaining a testament to the shark's power as a hunter. Each tooth has been naturally coloured by the minerals present during its fossilisation, resulting in a beautiful palette of ivory, cream, and warm caramel tones. Every piece is a unique relic from a time when these giants ruled the Cenozoic seas.
Formation & Preservation
These teeth were preserved within ancient seabed sediments. As the sharks naturally shed their teeth throughout their lives, the specimens were quickly buried in mineral-rich silt. Over millions of years, permineralisation replaced the organic dental tissues with minerals such as silica and calcium phosphate, preserving the glossy enamel and intricate anatomy of the root in remarkable detail.
What Makes This Specimen Special
These specimens are notable for their ‘complete’ anatomy, featuring the primary crown and the secondary side cusps which are often lost in lesser-quality finds. The preservation of the root structure provides a tactile sense of the immense jaw power these predators possessed.
Authenticity & Sourcing
Real vs Replica
- This is a genuine fossil — not a replica unless clearly stated. Clearly described and honestly presented.
- You will receive a specimen similar to the one shown — see Natural Variation below.
Ethical Sourcing
- Sourced from established suppliers and known commercial sites. We do not buy from localities we know to be protected, scientifically restricted, or subject to export controls. Origin and sourcing information is shared where known.
- ✓We will not knowingly handle specimens removed in breach of any country's heritage or export laws.
Origin & Natural Variation
Stated origin (Morocco) and formation (Phosphate deposits of the Ouled Abdoun Basin (likely)) are based on supplier information and available geological references. Identification can vary in certainty — especially for fragments — so where exact locality cannot be independently verified, we describe the formation rather than a single quarry.
Fossils are natural objects. Expect minor variation in colour, surface texture, and matrix, mineralisation and surface detail. Treatment information is shown under Condition & Treatment where it is recorded. “Not recorded” means we hold no verified record for that detail; it is not a claim that no treatment occurred.
Read our full authenticity & honest descriptions policy or the authenticity & sourcing clause in our terms.
Shipping, Returns & Packaging
• UK shipping: Free on orders of £50 or more. Standard £4.95 (Royal Mail Tracked 48, typically 2–3 working days after dispatch).
• International: Available worldwide. Rates at checkout.
• Packaging: Individually wrapped, cushioned, and boxed. Fragile specimens receive extra protection.
• Dispatch: Within 2 working days (framed, mounted, or made-to-order pieces take 1 additional working day).
• Returns: 30-day returns. Contact us first. Item must be in original condition.