X0303 4 2010-06-01 false 0000064279 MCMORAN EXPLORATION CO /DE/ MMR 0001200693 RANKIN B M JR 300 CRESCENT COURT, SUITE 875 DALLAS TX 75201 true false false false Common Stock 567889 I By Rankin Interests Limited Partnership Common Stock 2010-06-01 4 A false 2500 0 A 18573 D Options (Right to Buy) 9.48 2010-06-01 4 A false 5000 0 A 2011-06-01 2020-06-01 Common Stock 5000 5000 D Amount beneficially owned following the reported transaction includes 5,625 Common Stock Restricted Stock Units. 25% exercisable on the date indicated and 25% exercisable on each of the next three anniversaries thereof. Mr. Rankin previously reported indirect beneficial ownership of an aggregate 6,500 shares of common stock as trustee of trusts for his grandchildren. These trusts have terminated and the shares are no longer deemed held by Mr. Rankin. Kelly C. Simoneaux, on behalf of B. M. Rankin, Jr. pursuant to power of attorney 2010-06-02