My friends and I were doing a catalyst run of Crota, and I hadn't gotten Necrochasam just yet. When we kill Crota, I get the 23 essence drop and my triumphs say I unlocked the catalyst too. Except, when I finally get the gun and go to equip the catalyst, it isn't there to be put on.
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You still need to complete the quest puzzle steps even if you hit the jackpot.