Hungerford's Cowrie Seashell - Cypraea Hungerfordi Premium Specimen for Collectors
Rare Hungerford's Cowrie Shell | 1.25 Inch Museum-Quality Specimen | Authentic Indo-Pacific Marine Treasure
$6.00
1 Natural Hungerford's Cowrie Shell per order (single shell)
1.25 inches (34-36mm) exact size
Bag of 5 shells available for $17.50 (wholesale pricing)
Discover the Rare Hungerford's Cowrie Shell
The extraordinary Hungerford's Cowrie (Cypraea hungerfordi) is one of the ocean's most coveted treasures, prized by serious collectors for its exceptional rarity and striking beauty. Named in honor of British naturalist John Hungerford, this magnificent shell features a distinctive elongated shape with a smooth, porcelain-like surface adorned with intricate patterns of rich chocolate brown and cream. Sourced from the remote waters of the Indo-Pacific region, each Hungerford's Cowrie represents a piece of marine history and natural artistry that has captivated conchologists for generations.
Perfect for Museum Collections & Investment Specimens:
Collector's Investment: Hungerford's Cowries are among the most sought-after shells in the world due to their limited distribution and declining wild populations. Their rarity makes them valuable investment pieces that often appreciate over time. Serious collectors prize these shells for their:
Exceptional scarcity in the wild
Museum-quality appearance and condition
Historical significance in conchological circles
Potential for value appreciation as specimens become rarer
Prestige factor in high-end shell collections
Display Excellence: The substantial size and dramatic appearance of Hungerford's Cowries make them ideal for premium display applications:
Glass case specimen displays with descriptive placards
Executive office desk accessories and conversation pieces
Luxury coastal interior design accents and statement art
Educational marine biology exhibits and university collections
Private collector showcases and specialized conchology displays
Investment portfolio diversification for natural history enthusiasts
Scientific Significance: This species holds special importance in marine biology due to its restricted habitat and specific ecological requirements. Hungerford's Cowries are often studied by researchers to understand coral reef health and the impacts of environmental changes on specialized marine mollusks.
Natural Product Disclaimer:
Unique Ocean Treasures: As authentic marine specimens, each Hungerford's Cowrie shell features natural variations in pattern intensity, color depth, and surface characteristics. Minor imperfections from their ocean life journey add to their authentic character and document their natural history. Our photos show representative examples - no two shells are identical in nature's perfect design.
Color Accuracy Note: Shell colors may appear slightly different on various monitors and devices due to lighting and screen settings.
Global Shipping: We ship worldwide to over 100 countries! International customers welcome for all shell and coral items.
Satisfaction Guaranteed: Covered by our hassle-free return policy. We offer refunds or store credit - your choice.
Wholesale & Museum Collection Orders
Planning a museum exhibit, classroom activities, or large cultural project? Contact Seashell Supply today for special pricing on bulk shells. We offer discounted rates for schools, museums, cultural centers, and educational organizations placing orders for 25+ packages.
The ocean never creates two identical shells, making the one you receive truly one-of-a-kind.
Damaged in Transit: If your shell is damaged during its journey, please contact me within 24 hours of receipt with a photo. I will immediately send a replacement or issue a full refund.
Not as Described: I do my best to represent each shell accurately through photos and descriptions. If you feel your shell is significantly different from what was described, please contact me within 7 days, and we will find a thoughtful solution.
A Note on “Change of Mind”: As each shell is a natural, unique item, I cannot accept returns or exchanges due to a “change of mind.” Please review the photos and dimensions carefully to ensure it’s the perfect “ocean companion” for you.
Every seashell is a gift from the ocean, and I pack each one with the care it deserves, ensuring its safe journey to you.
Preparation Time: I will carefully wrap your seashells in recycled paper and twine within 1-3 business days, making it feel like a personal gift from the sea.
Shipping Method: I use reliable standard shipping and will provide you with a tracking number, so you can follow your shell’s journey.
International Orders: For shells traveling across oceans, please allow a little extra time. Sometimes customs checks can extend their journey.
We are deeply committed to sustainable and ethical practices. All our shells are sourced responsibly—never from live-shelled creatures. We support marine conservation efforts and maintain transparency about our sourcing practices.
Discovery Story: Hungerford's Cowrie was first scientifically described in 1888 by British malacologist Edgar Albert Smith, who named it after John Hungerford, a prominent shell collector who funded the expedition that discovered the species.
Habitat Mystery: For decades, the exact habitat and living conditions of Hungerford's Cowrie remained unknown to science. It wasn't until the 1970s that researchers discovered they live in very specific deep-water coral reef environments at depths of 60-200 feet.
Living Rarity: The living animal is even rarer than the shells - Hungerford's Cowries are nocturnal and extremely secretive, making live specimens exceptionally rare in scientific collections and aquariums worldwide.
Conservation Status: Due to habitat destruction and overcollection, Hungerford's Cowrie is now protected under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species), making legally sourced specimens increasingly valuable to collectors.
Pattern Significance: The intricate brown patterns on Hungerford's Cowries aren't random - they follow specific growth lines that marine scientists can analyze to determine the shell's age and environmental conditions during its formation.
Cultural Taboo: In some Pacific Island cultures where these shells are found, Hungerford's Cowries were traditionally considered sacred and could only be collected by specific individuals after performing ceremonial rituals, adding to their mystique and rarity.