[Harmless Teddy Bear]

Only reason I can think it would be worth it (possibly) is if it is a variety that does not exist any more and they are hoping the seeds are still viable. Something like the Judean date palm.

[metmom]

While the seeds may not be viable, they may be able to use the DNA to resurrect an old variety. Some amazing things can be done with genetics these days.

Whether they should or not is another issue.

[Clutch Martin]

It was probably a gift brought from the West Indies inscribed for a special holiday such as Christmastide and held so dear by the receiver of the gift it was never eaten.

Of course the British Navy consumed limes and drank lime juice daily but they had protected the trade routes and had access to all that exoctic stuff.