Rare Thumb Butte Meteorite (5.1 Grams) – Official Arizona H3.8 Chondrite | Todd Parker Provenance

Own a genuine specimen of the officially recognized Thumb Butte meteorite, one of Arizona's rarest ordinary chondrites. This 5.1-gram individual originates from a meteorite with a total known recovered mass of only 105 grams, making it an exceptionally scarce addition to any serious Arizona meteorite collection.

The Thumb Butte meteorite was discovered on March 1, 2008, by renowned Arizona meteorite hunter Todd Parker. Only a single stone weighing 105 grams was recovered, and it was later classified by Dr. Ted Bunch of Northern Arizona University as an H3.8 Ordinary Chondrite. The type specimen is now curated by the Buseck Center for Meteorite Studies at Arizona State University, while the remainder remained with the finder.

Unlike most ordinary chondrites, H3.8 meteorites are considered unequilibrated, preserving well-defined chondrules and primitive mineral features that have undergone relatively little thermal alteration. These characteristics make Thumb Butte especially desirable to collectors who appreciate meteorites that retain much of their original internal structure.

This specimen carries exceptional provenance directly from Todd Parker, the original finder, adding significant historical importance and collector appeal.

Specimen Details

• Meteorite: Thumb Butte
• Classification: H3.8 Ordinary Chondrite
• Official Status: Meteoritical Bulletin Approved
• Weight: 5.1 grams
• Specimen Type: Individual
• Location Found: Arizona, USA
• Date Found: March 1, 2008
• Known Recovered Mass: 105 grams (single recovered stone)
• Shock Stage: S2
• Weathering Grade: W1
• Classifier: Dr. Ted Bunch, Northern Arizona University

Provenance

• Todd Parker – Original Finder

Direct provenance from the discoverer greatly enhances this specimen's historical significance and authenticity, making it an outstanding example for advanced collectors.

A Rare Arizona Meteorite

With only 105 grams ever recovered, Thumb Butte ranks among Arizona's rarest officially recognized meteorites. Its uncommon H3.8 classification, exceptionally low recovered mass, and direct finder provenance make specimens like this increasingly difficult to obtain.

Whether displayed as part of an Arizona-focused collection or appreciated for its primitive chondritic features, this Thumb Butte meteorite represents an exceptional opportunity to own a documented piece of Arizona's meteoritic history.