292 - Collection of natural history specimens and lithic tools. The group includes 29 fossilized fish skeletons, each articulated and preserved within an oval-shaped sedimentary stone matrix showing orange-brown mineralization. One large rectangular block of sedimentary rock contains a dense concentration of fossilized brachiopod and bivalve shells with visible ribbing. The lot also includes three stone artifacts: one rounded bifacial chert core with visible percussion flaking and dark cortex, one elongated tan chert blade tool with reticulated edge flaking, and one smaller irregular chert flake or scraper. The fish specimens are uniformly shaped into smooth ovals for display. Largest piece: 4" L x 3" W x 1" D. Fish specimens: 1 7/8" L x 7/8" W x 1/8" D. From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940-2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.

Collection of natural history specimens and lithic tools. The group includes 29 fossilized fish skeletons, each articulated and preserved within an oval-shaped sedimentary stone matrix showing orange-brown mineralization. One large rectangular block of sedimentary rock contains a dense concentration of fossilized brachiopod and bivalve shells with visible ribbing. The lot also includes three stone artifacts: one rounded bifacial chert core with visible percussion flaking and dark cortex, one elongated tan chert blade tool with reticulated edge flaking, and one smaller irregular chert flake or scraper. The fish specimens are uniformly shaped into smooth ovals for display. Largest piece: 4" L x 3" W x 1" D. Fish specimens: 1 7/8" L x 7/8" W x 1/8" D. From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940-2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation. Proceeds from the Peter Benchley Collection will benefit five ocean conservation organizations: Peter Benchley Ocean Awards, WildAid, Beneath the Waves, Blue Frontier and Environmental Defense Fund. CONDITION: The specimens are in good condition overall. The small fish fossils exhibit clear skeletal detail and are stable within their shaped mounts. The large fossil block shows natural weathering and stable edges. The lithic artifacts retain sharp knapped edges and characteristic flake scars; minor edge nibbling is present on the chert tools, consistent with the nature of the material and age. No significant fractures or recent losses are visible. NOTICE TO BIDDERS: The absence of a condition report does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition. Photos are considered part of the condition report. Complete condition information is available by request, please request no later than 24 hours prior to the auction. All lots are offered and sold "as is", and Willow Auctions will not provide refunds based on condition. Timepiece movements, lighting and electrics have not been tested, and art has not been examined out of the frame unless otherwise stated.