Newp-Bar Amulet

[IowaCollector]

I was attending the Hawkeye State Archaeological Society Show in Mt. Pleasant on Sunday when a friend told me to go over and look at the Bar Amulet a guy had found this past summer which he had on display. I went over to look at it and while talking to the finder he told me that he'd be interested in selling it. Wow!!! I couldn't believe it!! Bar Amulets are so rare!!

Its shape matches the contours of my hand perfectly and was obviously used as some type of handle or grip. Whetether it was attached to an atlatl or not, who really knows?? My opinion is that if they, along with Birdstones and Bannerstones where used in association with an atlatl we would find a whole lot more of them. Considering the style of manufacture, specifically the drill holes, they most definitely are related to birdstones.

I also got to talk with Hippy's and hold his new Dovetail and 3/4 Groove Axe, which he posted pictures of here. Both are fantastic pieces!! Congrats Hippy!!!

[Wichita]

!

[drdave514]

I just have to track you down the next time I'm in Iowa to see your collection. In contrast to sitting around with my in laws... priceless.

Great piece.

[Michael Karr]

Very fine artifact Steve ! Michael

[George Looney]

Very nice Iowa,,,is the size and weight within other flat bottom Boatstone weights we have seen ??

[ghost recon]

Beautiful artifact. It would be an incredibly rare find but I wish one could be found in association and well preserved still attached to an atlatl or whatever its true purpose was, in a cave or frozen in ice. Just to give us more info on these rare pieces.

[IowaCollector]

Originally Posted by drdave514

I just have to track you down the next time I'm in Iowa to see your collection. In contrast to sitting around with my in laws... priceless.

Great piece.

drdave...Thanks!!

Just let me know if you are ever in the area. I'd be more than happy to have you come visit!!

Steve

[IowaCollector]

Originally Posted by Michael Karr

Very fine artifact Steve ! Michael

Thanks Michael!!!

Thanks Wachita!!

[IowaCollector]

Originally Posted by George Looney

Very nice Iowa,,,is the size and weight within other flat bottom Boatstone weights we have seen ??

George....The length of this piece is 4 1/2" long. I have a traditional boatstone that is 3 3/4" long but it is made from a speckled hardstone. So as far as weight I would guess they are about the same, without actually weighing them??

[Hippy]

Killer piece IC. That's as rare as they get for the area. It's the only one I've seen from Iowa although I'm sure there are a few others. It's interesting that it's slate rather than hardstone too. The couple I have seen from the IL side of the river are hardstone.

Congrats on the find and good chatting with you again.

Hippy