Ancient Seas, Morocco, Hamar Laghdad Formation, Devonian period, ca. 419.2 to 358.9 million years ago. A fine collection of 3 separate stone matrixes that each contain a fossilized trilobite, each a different species, that showcase the remarkable variety these "simple" creatures achieved. The largest is a Coltraneia trilobite that has huge eyes with protruding ridges on the tips of the lobe. The next is a Cornuproteus trilobite with wonderful genial spines that curve along the sides towards the posterior or pygidium. The third trilobite is a Phacops speculator, a rounded and ovoid creature that is very reminiscent of pill bugs or roly-polies - indeed the defensive enrolled position that these modern isopods are known for was perfected by the Phacops trilobites. All 3 matrices are approximately the same size, and the details are well preserved and even pleasantly tactile - especially the eye lobes! Size (Phacops fossil): 2.25" W x 1" H (5.7 cm x 2.5 cm); (matrix): 3.5" L x 2.75" W (8.9 cm x 7 cm)

Provenance: ex-Stein collection, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, USA, acquired prior to 2010

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#168957

All are professionally prepared and excavated. The matrices on the Cornuproteus and the Coltraneia trilobite is repaired from two pieces, with a break line radiating across the fossils. Infill and repairs are well done and nearly indiscernible. Loss to tip of genial spine on Cornuproteus. Phacops trilobite has infill to hairline cavities and fissures across the body. Great preservation to fine details on all trilobites.