Megantereon — A Forerunner of the King of the Saber-Toothed Cats Age: Approximately 5–2 million years ago (Pliocene to Early Pleistocene) This lot features a fossil skull of Megantereon, an extinct saber-toothed felid widely regarded as an important evolutionary forerunner of the iconic saber-toothed cat Smilodon. Megantereon possessed similarly elongated and sharply developed canines, along with a robust cranial structure and powerful jaws, clearly illustrating the formidable bite mechanics evolved by saber-toothed cats for the pursuit of large prey. The distinctive upper canine alveoli and characteristic cranial proportions render this specimen highly diagnostic and of significant scientific interest. Fossil skulls of Megantereon are exceptionally rare. This specimen offers outstanding academic, exhibition, and high-end collectible value, and represents an important example within collections of prehistoric apex predators. The specimen measures approximately 26 cm in length, with the upper and lower jaws originating from the same individual. It was professionally prepared from the original natural matrix and is mounted for ease of display. Due to the fragile nature of certain elements, minor damage occurred during excavation and was subsequently professionally stabilized and restored solely to their original positions. All skeletal elements are authentic and natural, with no reconstructed or cast components present. A fine addition for any collection, sincerely recommended.