Exceptional Artifact & Collectible Auction
Lot 195:
4" Graham Cave Point found in Monroe Co. MO, Ex Brian Evans
This well made Early Archaic Graham Cave point measures approximately 4 inches and is crafted from high quality Burlington chert. The material displays a rich naturally developed river patination, including softened flake scars, mineral sheen in recessed areas, and gentle smoothing along the blade edges from long term water exposure. The color variation within the Burlington chert is enhanced by this patination, giving the piece a classic well aged archaeological surface with no signs of modern alteration.
The workmanship is strong and consistent with authentic Graham Cave manufacture. Both faces show broad controlled percussion thinning, producing a sturdy blade with well defined shoulders and the characteristic basal configuration associated with the type. The edges exhibit careful pressure retouch, and the overall outline is symmetrical and well balanced. The basal shape, shoulder expression, and thinning pattern align closely with documented Early Archaic examples from Missouri and the surrounding region.
Condition is excellent for a river found artifact. The tip remains intact with only minor ancient use wear, the blade edges show genuine prehistoric retouch, and the base is complete and original. The surface retains its natural river worn patina with no evidence of modern resharpening, restoration, or enhancement.
This artifact was recovered in Monroe County, Missouri, an area well known for Early Archaic lithic traditions. The named finder, Brian Evans, provides solid verifiable provenance, making this a desirable and well documented example for collectors.
This artifact is an authentic Early Archaic Graham Cave point, exhibiting all diagnostic traits of the type including its defined shoulders, characteristic basal form, and well controlled bifacial thinning. The Burlington chert shows proper ancient river patination with softened flake scars, mineralized surface texture, and natural smoothing consistent with long term water exposure. Edge wear is uniform and prehistoric with no signs of modern reworking. Based on its form, workmanship, patination, and documented Monroe County provenance, this is a high quality unquestionably authentic Graham Cave and an excellent example of the type.
Condition: Authentic
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