Amazing Coulter Pinecone !!!!!!!!!!

I am holding the (Pinus coulter)...or The COULTER PINECONE or BIG-CONE PINE...The Coulter Pine is a native of the coastal mountains of Southern California (United States) and northern Baja California (Mexico). Isolated groves are found as far north as the San Francisco Bay Area. This erect, medium-sized pine prefers south-facing slopes between 200-2300 elevation, and tolerates dry rocky soil. The tree most often appears in mixed forests. The species is named after Thomas Coulter, an Irish botanist and physician.
The outstanding characteristic of this tree is the large, spiny cones which are 8-12 inches long and can weigh up to 5 pounds. Coulter Pines produce the LARGEST CONES OF ANY PINE SPECIES-people are actually advised to wear hardhats when working in Coulter Pine groves. The wood is weak and soft, so that the species is little used other than for firewood. It is also occasionally planted as an ornamental tree in parks and large gardens.
Andy works for the Forest Service....and brought this Coulter Pinecone home for me last night. I love little things like this...better than any "high-dollar" present any day! You can get an idea of how huge this cone is by the picture.