Ultra Rare Short-Faced Bear 24 Kt. Gold Leaf Plated / Fiberglass / Metal Original 1/1 2023 The short-faced bear (*Arctodus simus*) was one of the largest land carnivores of the Pleistocene. It lived in North America and became extinct around 11,000 years ago. This bear could stand over 3 meters tall on its hind legs, making it taller than modern bears. Despite its name, its face was broad and flat rather than truly “short.” It had long legs, suggesting it could run faster than most other bears. Scientists debate whether it was mainly a predator or a scavenger. Its diet likely included large animals like bison and horses. The short-faced bear may have competed with early humans and other predators. Climate change and human activity are possible reasons for its extinction. Today, it is studied to understand prehistoric ecosystems and megafauna.