Lucy

Part of Hall of Human Origins.

Display case holding the skeleton of Lucy, a 2-4 million year old hominid, with exhibit text. Alvaro Keding & Daniel Kim/© AMNH

"Lucy" is one of the most complete skeletons found to date from the early hominids that flourished between 4 and 2 million years ago. The skeleton consists of bones from a single individual, presumably female, who stood well under 4 feet tall.

Discovered by scientists in 1974, the 3.18-million-year-old Lucy was named after the Beatles song "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds," which the researchers listened to as they celebrated their remarkable find.

Lucy is featured in our list of Highlights. Check out the rest of our must-see exhibits!