After an astonishing astronomical discovery was made near Melbourne, two scientists jostled for possession of the world’s largest iron meteorite. At a time of growing national awareness in Australia, colonial scientists challenged imperial assumptions of ownership of discoveries of interest. At stak...

After an astonishing astronomical discovery was made near Melbourne, two scientists jostled for possession of the world’s largest iron meteorite. At a time of growing national awareness in Australia, colonial scientists challenged imperial assumptions of ownership of discoveries of interest. At stake was a glittering prize, and a chance to gain an other-worldly talisman of local identity. We discover who prevailed.