3059 - North American Double Fossil Knightia Fish Plate. Eocene Period, 58-36 million years B.P. Oval matrix with two Knightia alta specimens with a partial fossil on the reverse. 377 grams, 19.3 cm (7 5/8 in.). [No Reserve]

North American Double Fossil Knightia Fish Plate. Eocene Period, 58-36 million years B.P. Oval matrix with two Knightia alta specimens with a partial fossil on the reverse. 377 grams, 19.3 cm (7 5/8 in.). [No Reserve] From Green River formation, Wyoming, USA. From a Lincolnshire, UK, collection. In southwest Wyoming (and parts of Colorado and Utah), in the Green River Formation, are found some of the world's most outstanding specimens of fossil fish. The Green River system was composed of three lakes: Lake Uinta, Lake Gosiute and Fossil Lake. These Eocene lakes lay in a series of intermountain basins formed by geological events that uplifted the Rocky Mountains during the early Tertiary period. The climate was much different from the desert-like climate of this area today. Both the fauna (crocodiles, alligators, boa constrictors and some subtropical fish families) and the flora (such as large palm trees) indicate a climate much like that found along the Gulf Coast today. Large amounts of ash found in the sediments indicate that volcanoes were particularly active at this time. TimeLine Auctions follows a rigorous vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists. See our website for more information.