A taxidermy head of a thylacine, also known as a Tasmanian tiger, has been identified as a rare historical artifact after being purchased for £50 at an antiques market. The specimen, which had been in private hands for years, was recently brought to the attention of experts who confirmed its authenticity and rarity.

The thylacine was a carnivorous marsupial native to Australia, Tasmania, and New Guinea, and was declared extinct in the 20th century. Because the species is extinct, surviving taxidermy specimens are highly sought after by museums and private collectors. While the initial purchase price was a modest £50, the item is now considered a 'holy grail' antique due to its historical significance and the scarcity of such preserved remains.

Reports indicate that the item was misidentified or overlooked by the original seller at the market, leading to the low price point. The discovery highlights the potential for rare historical items to remain hidden in plain sight within the secondary antiques market. The current owner has not disclosed plans for the item, though such pieces often end up in institutional collections to ensure their preservation.