Description: This is a fine example of a half vertebra from the most sought-after shark Carcharodon (or Charcharocles) megalodon. While teeth are usually the only part of these cartilaginous skeleton to be preserved, calcification of the jaws and vertebrae can sometimes occur, affording a specimen such as this. Some researchers believe that the growth rings of the vertebra can be used to determine the age of the shark in much the same way as for a tree. If that is the case, this was an old one indeed! This one is seen here on a circular piece of limestone matrix, making it a unique presentation specimen.