Nantan Iron Meteorite Value Guide

The Nantan meteorite is a historic iron-nickel specimen originating from a spectacular 'shower of stars' observed over China in 1516. These fragments remained undisturbed for centuries until their rediscovery in 1958 during a local industrial search for iron ore.

What affects the value of Nantan Iron Meteorite?

• Weight and size of the fragment, with larger specimens from the 28km strewn field commanding higher prices.
• The degree of preservation and stabilization to prevent 'lawrencite disease' or ongoing rusting.
• Visual appeal of the specimen's shape, specifically the presence of well-defined flight markings.
• Authenticity documentation linking the piece to the original 1958 recovery efforts in Nantan.

How to Identify Nantan Iron Meteorite?

• Look for a coarse octahedral structure characteristic of IAB-MG group iron meteorites.
• Verify the chemical composition, which typically consists of approximately 92% iron and 6.9% nickel.
• Check for a heavy oxide crust or 'shale' appearance, as Nantan specimens are prone to weathering due to the humid Guangxi climate.
• Examine the surface for regmaglypts, though many smaller fragments may appear more jagged or rusted.

History of Nantan Iron Meteorite

The Nantan meteorite fall occurred in May of 1516 in Guangxi, China. It was observed as a shower of falling stars. The strewn field where fragments were found is estimated to be 28 kilometers long and 8 kilometers wide. Fragments were not recovered until 1958 during a search for raw materials for a local steel factory. The largest fragment found weighed 2,000 kilograms.