RARE: Notorynchus primigenius Shark Tooth Fossil – Lower Jaw Tooth – Early Miocene – Lee Creek Aurora PCS Mine NC USA

Description

Notorynchus primigenius Fossil Shark Tooth – Lower Jaw Tooth – Early Miocene – Pungo River Marl – PCS Phosphate Mine – Lee Creek, Aurora, North Carolina, USA

This listing is for a rare lower jaw tooth from the extinct seven-gill cow shark Notorynchus primigenius, discovered in the famous PCS Phosphate Mine at Lee Creek, Aurora, North Carolina. This fossil originates from the Pungo River Marl, part of the richly fossiliferous marine deposits of the Early Miocene epoch.

Fossil Type: Lower jaw tooth (labial face)

Species: Notorynchus primigenius

Family: Hexanchidae (cow sharks)

Order: Hexanchiformes

Class: Chondrichthyes (cartilaginous fishes)

Geological Stage: Early Miocene (Burdigalian, ~20–16 million years ago)

Formation: Pungo River Marl

Location: PCS Phosphate Mine (Lee Creek), Aurora, Beaufort County, North Carolina, USA

Depositional Environment: Shallow marine shelf with phosphate-rich sediments supporting a diverse marine ecosystem

Biozone/Zone: Associated with Burdigalian-aged microfossils; no formal macro biozonation

Morphology Features: This lower lateral tooth displays the hallmark traits of Notorynchus primigenius—a large primary cusp flanked by a series of smaller, recurved cusplets, all mounted on a broad, flattened root base typical of hexanchid sharks. These teeth were adapted for cutting and grasping prey in muddy, nearshore environments. The fossil shows good preservation, and wear patterns consistent with use and burial in phosphate-rich matrix.

Notable: The PCS Mine is now closed to public access, making these teeth increasingly rare and sought-after by collectors. Notorynchus is notable for being one of the oldest surviving lineages of sharks, with descendants still alive today (e.g., Notorynchus cepedianus).

Condition: Excellent preservation of cusps and root structure. No repairs. The tooth shown is the exact specimen you will receive.

Please Note: Scale Rule Squares / Cube = 1cm. Refer to photo for full sizing.

Important:

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.

A scientifically and visually impressive fossil from one of North America’s premier fossil sites—perfect for shark enthusiasts and serious fossil collectors alike.