Exceptional Artifact & Collectible Auction
Lot 216:
3 1/4" Stillwell Drill found in Monroe County, Missouri
This finely made Stilwell Stemmed Drill measures 3 1/4 inches and displays the classic attributes of the Stilwell tradition, including a straight narrow stem, squared shoulders, and an elongated needle like working end. The overall form is fully consistent with Archaic period stemmed tools that were commonly reworked into drills for specialized tasks. The flaking is well executed, with broad percussion removals along the body and more refined pressure retouch toward the distal end. The maker intentionally reinforced and straightened the tip, producing the long tapered profile characteristic of true drills rather than projectile points.
Edge micro flaking and wear patterns are consistent with rotational or reciprocating use, supporting its identification as a functional prehistoric drill. The surface shows excellent patination, with a uniform chalky matte finish typical of long buried Missouri chert. Mineral sheen, edge smoothing, and subtle ground contact wear are all consistent with authentic prehistoric age. No modern flaking, grinding, or restoration is present. The coloration and texture align well with known Archaic materials from the region.
Recovered in Monroe County, Missouri and found by Brian Evans, the piece carries solid verifiable provenance. This artifact is an authentic Stilwell Stemmed Drill, exhibiting all diagnostic traits of the type including its straight narrow stem, squared shoulders, and deliberately elongated reinforced distal end shaped for drilling. The flaking pattern, broad percussion thinning transitioning into fine pressure retouch, matches known Stilwell reworked tools from the Archaic period.
The surface displays proper natural patination with softened flake scars, mineralized texture, and uniform ground contact wear consistent with long term burial. Edge micro flaking and wear patterns further support genuine prehistoric use as a functional drill. Based on its form, workmanship, patination, and regional material characteristics, this is a strong unquestionably authentic Stilwell drill and an excellent example of the type.
Provenance: Found by Brian Evans, Monroe County, Missouri.
Condition: Authentic
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