Native American Artifacts & Collectibles
Lot 174:
2 1/8" Engrave Mica Schist Bannerstone found near Mt Smith in Virginia
This rectangular-form bannerstone is made from mica-rich schist, a material strongly associated with the Smith Mountain region of Virginia. The stone shows correct hand-ground shaping with softly rounded edges and a naturally muted sheen across the exterior surfaces. A single vertical incised groove is present on one face, fully patinated and weathered, indicating intentional prehistoric marking rather than modern alteration. The piece measures 2 1/8 inches long and comes from the Drs Collection. Surface Analysis – The surface displays abundant mica platelets that produce a natural sparkle, consistent with Virginia schist rather than slate. Exterior patination is authentic, with mineral-embedded coloration and no signs of modern tooling or resurfacing. The perforation shows complete interior burnishing with a smooth, uniform polish and no spiral or directional drill marks. This finish is characteristic of prolonged use on an atlatl shaft, where rotational movement and vibration produce a full interior polish and slight curvature rather than a perfectly straight modern bore. The overall surface condition aligns with correct prehistoric manufacture and genuine use-wear. Ex James Shields Collection
Condition: Ancient Authentic
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