Machairodus giganteus
Late Miocene
Asia
One of the largest saber-toothed cat skulls ever discovered, from the largest saber-toothed cat species of all time, this skull is from Machairodus giganteus, a species even more massive than the famous Smilodon of the La Brea Tar Pits.

This king-of-all-saber-tooths was a pack hunter, roaming the Late Miocene savannahs of Central Asia. These plains teemed with life, much like the Serengeti plains of Africa. There were massive herds of gomphotheres, hippo-like rhinos, giraffes, and huge varieties of antelope. The top competitor of Machairodus giganteus was the giant hyena, Dinocrocta, which could reach the size of a grizzly bear. Machairodus giganteus has been found only in Asia, while other members of the genus have been found in Europe, Africa, and even North America.

This specimen, exhibiting over 95% original bone, displays exceptional sabers, which protrude over four inches from the skull; it is from a large male. At 17 ½ inches, it is among the largest saber-toothed cat skulls ever found. Also recommending this offering is the presence of the first three cervical vertebrae attached at the base of the skull. This is undoubtedly one of the finest fossil cat skulls ever to be offered for public sale. Mounted on a custom metal stand.
Skull length 17 1/2in, Sabers measure 4in; Overall dimensions measure 19.25 x 16 x 9in