While the date of the first fossil discovery is unknown, fossils have been recognized for millennia. Buckland's significant contributions were:

* Identifying and classifying fossils: He was a pioneer in understanding and interpreting fossil remains, particularly those of dinosaurs.

* Discovering and describing Megalosaurus: He is famous for his work on the first described dinosaur, *Megalosaurus*.

* Buckland's publication of his findings: His work in the early 19th century helped establish paleontology as a distinct field of study.

Therefore, it's incorrect to say he discovered the first fossil. Instead, he was a key figure in the development of paleontology and the study of fossils.