Sikhote-Alin Iron Meteorite Value Guide

The Sikhote-Alin meteorite is a legendary 1947 Russian fall, renowned as one of the largest witnessed iron meteorite events in history. Collectors prize these specimens for their dramatic, sculptural shrapnel forms and the distinct regmaglypts created during their violent atmospheric entry.

What Is Sikhote-Alin Iron Meteorite Worth?

The typical price range for Sikhote-Alin Iron Meteorite is $135 - $150 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of well-defined regmaglypts significantly increases the aesthetic and market value.
• Specimen weight and overall size are primary drivers for the $135-$150 price range for smaller fragments.
• The degree of natural metallic luster versus oxidation or rust affects the desirability for collectors.
• Authentic documentation linking the piece to the 1947 Sikhote-Alin Mountains impact site.

How to Identify Sikhote-Alin Iron Meteorite?

• Look for characteristic regmaglypts, which are thumbprint-like indentations on the surface caused by ablation.
• Verify the metallic luster and heavy weight indicative of its high iron and nickel composition.
• Examine the specimen for jagged, twisted edges typical of shrapnel fragments from the mid-air explosion.
• Confirm the classification as a coarsest octahedrite through documented provenance or structural analysis.

History of Sikhote-Alin Iron Meteorite

On February 12, 1947, a massive iron meteorite broke apart over the Sikhote-Alin Mountains in southeastern Russia. It was one of the largest meteorite falls in recorded history, creating over 100 craters. The fragments are classified as a coarsest octahedrite and are highly prized for their sculptural, jagged shapes created by the mid-air explosion.