Scute, scale, or shell?

[Frank Eaton]

This is a large scale or scute from the Yorktown formation in North Carolina. The pattern Is familiar as a reptile scute but the shape and thickness of the specimen isn’t present in any of my other scutes. It tapers to a diamond point and is less than a centimeter thick. The top face is flaky and covered in old barnacle holds. Another neat mystery I’m trying to clear up! 

(Edit: It’s a sturgeon scute)

 

Frank

Edited January 30, 2022 by Frank Eaton

[jpc]

you might look into possible crocodile skull pieces.

[Al Dente]

It looks like a sturgeon osteoderm.

[Brett Breakin' Rocks]

@Al Dente is correct a sturgeon osteoderm.

For reference: 

 

Image Credit: Fossilguy.com

 

[Frank Eaton]

Once again, checking elasmo first will solve all

my problems! Thanks @Brett Breakin' Rocks and @Al Dente. I think mine is actually in much better condition than these! 
 

Frank