Dovetail Projectile Point Value Guide

The Dovetail Projectile Point, also known as the St. Charles point, is a premier artifact of the Early Archaic period in the United States. These points are highly collectible due to their superior bifacial flaking and the sophisticated craftsmanship required to create their signature flared, fan-shaped stems.

What affects the value of Dovetail Projectile Point?

• Material quality and color, specifically the use of rare or aesthetically pleasing light-colored flint and chert.
• Overall size and symmetry, as larger, perfectly balanced points command higher prices in the $400-$500 range.
• Edge condition and preservation, with minimal modern damage or ancient resharpening increasing the value.
• Provenance and documentation linking the artifact to specific Early Archaic sites in North America.

How to Identify Dovetail Projectile Point?

• Look for the distinctive 'dovetail' or fan-shaped base with a rounded or convex bottom edge.
• Examine the piece for high-quality bifacial pressure flaking, often found on light-colored flint or chert materials.
• Check for a width that is significantly broader at the shoulders than at the base, creating a sharp taper.
• Verify the presence of heavy basal grinding, which was common for hafting onto spears or atlatl darts.

History of Dovetail Projectile Point

Dovetail points, also known as St. Charles points, are significant artifacts from the Early Archaic period in North America, primarily used by nomadic hunter-gatherer societies. These points, known for their superior craftsmanship, were likely hafted onto spears or darts propelled by an atlatl, preceding the invention of the bow and arrow. Their large size and quality knapping mark them as high-status hunting tools or ceremonial objects among early indigenous cultures.