Dalton Projectile Point Value Guide

The Dalton Projectile Point is a significant transitional artifact marking the shift from Paleo-Indian to Early Archaic cultures in the United States. Named after Judge Richard Dalton, these lanceolate chert tools are highly collectible due to their unique evolution from hunting points into specialized serrated drills.

What Is Dalton Projectile Point Worth?

The typical price range for Dalton Projectile Point is $260 - $285 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The degree of resharpening; points that retain their original lanceolate width are often more valuable than those worn down to drill forms.
• The quality and color of the chert used, with rare or high-grade stone increasing the market price.
• Overall symmetry and the presence of delicate serrations along the blade edges.
• Provenance and documentation verifying the point's discovery in a known Dalton culture geographic range.

How to Identify Dalton Projectile Point?

• Look for a distinct concave base with thinning flakes removed to facilitate hafting.
• Examine the edges for evidence of extensive resharpening, which often results in a serrated or 'beveled' appearance.
• Verify the lanceolate shape and the presence of basal grinding on the lower edges and stem.
• Confirm the material is a regional chert consistent with Midwestern or Southeastern United States origins.

History of Dalton Projectile Point

Named after Judge Richard Dalton of Missouri, these points were used by hunter-gatherers during the transition from the Paleo-Indian to the Early Archaic period. They were often resharpened until they resembled drills, serving as versatile tools for hunting and processing game across the southeastern and midwestern United States.