Robust Phacopidina micheli Volongo Trilobite

Description: Valongo trilobites are easily recognized by their ghostly appearance. They are normally compressed, distorted, and the matrix has a slatey appearance. This one is part of a small batch of exceptionally well-preserved specimens that I recently procured.

Phacopidina micheli is one of the less common species from the Valongo Formation. One is struck immediately by the exquisite preservation, color and aesthetics of this specimen. It is fully prone and inflated, resting comfortably on the matrix. Both eyes on this one are unusually well preserved including the eye facets. If you are a purveyor of Valongo trilobites, you will have already recognized the artistic hand lettered label on the specimen. It signifies the collector and curator. He is considered the most important and well-respected provider of Volongo Portuguese trilobites.