Arrowheads weren’t just tools—they were often traded like money. Tribes valued them for their usefulness and skillful craftsmanship, making them a form of early currency in Native American trade long before coins came along.

This is an authentic Native American jasper projectile point recovered from Pennsylvania, knapped from locally sourced jasper commonly used by Indigenous peoples of the Middle Atlantic region.

The point exhibits classic prehistoric flintknapping techniques, including bifacial reduction, controlled pressure flaking along the edges, and a well-defined point suitable for use as a spear or dart tip (likely atlatl-era rather than arrow).

Pennsylvania jasper was a highly prized lithic material due to its durability, sharpness, and predictable fracture patterns. This example shows natural patination and mineral variation consistent with long-term burial and age.

This piece represents a genuine functional tool, not a modern reproduction.

Typology & Cultural Context (Interpretive)

Based on form and workmanship, this point is consistent with Eastern Woodland projectile point traditions, likely dating to the:

Late Archaic to Early Woodland period

Approximate age range: 3,000 – 8,000 years BP

Its broad blade, tapering shoulders, and robust base suggest use on a spear or dart shaft rather than a lightweight arrow, indicating pre-bow technology.

Material Analysis

Stone: Jasper (iron-rich microcrystalline quartz)

Color: Earthy brown with reddish and ochre inclusions

Knapping: Bifacial percussion with later pressure retouch

Surface: Natural patina consistent with age and soil exposure

Jasper from Pennsylvania sources (including Hardyston, Lehigh Valley, and related deposits) was widely traded and used throughout the region.

Condition

Very Good – Authentic Field Grade

Complete tip and base

Edge wear consistent with age and possible use

No modern breaks

No signs of machine shaping or recent tooling

Honest surface weathering and patina

This is a genuine utilitarian artifact, not a “collector-cleaned” piece.

Authenticity Assessment

Based on:

Knapping style

Edge symmetry irregularity (human-made, not modern)

Material sourcing

Natural patina and wear patterns

Estimated probability of authenticity: 95%+

Modern replicas typically show:

Overly sharp, glassy edges

Symmetrical perfection

Fresh flake scars
None of those are present here.

Collector / Display Notes

Excellent for educational display

Ideal for Native American artifact collections

Works well framed with a regional map or cultural placard

Strong fit for a shop or collection focused on Authentic Ancient Artifacts

Summary

A genuine Pennsylvania jasper projectile point, representing prehistoric Indigenous technology, craftsmanship, and survival. A solid, honest artifact with real age, real use, and real history — not a decorative reproduction.

Legal & Ethical Note

This artifact appears consistent with legally collected surface-find material from a state where private collecting is permitted when conducted responsibly. (Always follow local and federal regulations.)