How to Collect Antique Arrowheads
The term 'arrowhead' is commonly used to refer to the pointed spears attached to the end of arrows by peoples native to the North American continent. For decades, arrowheads have been popular in the world of collecting artifacts. As with most types of antiquities, the value of the arrowhead depends greatly on its age, condition and quality.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
Collect Antique Arrowheads
-
1
Get started on your collection by learning as much as you can about antique arrowheads. Books like 'Arrowheads & Stone Artifacts: A Practical Guide for the Amateur Archaeologist,' available at Amazon.com (see Resources below) give you an all-around look at the history of collecting arrowheads, what to look for in a good piece and how to distinguish authentic pieces from forgeries.
-
2
Make an effort to see every piece you collect in person before you buy. Holding arrowheads in your hand can tell you a lot about whether or not they're authentic. For example, true antique arrowheads tend to weigh about twice as much as their modern-casted counterparts.
-
-
3
Spend some time becoming familiar with the different types of lithic materials used for arrowheads. Each tribe in North America used different materials when constructing weapons. Research books are a valuable source on tribe materials, as are websites like the Authentic Artifacts Collectors Association, Inc. (see Resources below).
-
4
Ask for the history of the item, where it was found and by whom. Since there are strict regulations in place over the sale of authentic antique arrowheads, you'll want to make sure the pieces you're interested in are legitimate.
-
5
Be sure to get insurance coverage as soon as possible for the arrowheads you collect. Insurance is one of the most popular ways to make sure your investment isn't wasted because of a fire, flood, theft or other tragedy.
-
6
Organize the arrowheads you collect by cataloging them as soon as you purchase them. The information you catalog, including the date of purchase, price paid and history surrounding piece, may also help you get insurance coverage faster.
-
7
Store your antique arrowheads properly. When at all possible, a custom-made glass cabinet with secure locks may be the best bet. However, a curio cabinet kept away from the sun in a cool, dry room is also acceptable.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
One way to tell whether an arrowhead has been restored is by cleaning it with warm, soapy water and then gently tapping it against your teeth. Original areas will make a 'clink' sound, whereas restored points will have a distinct 'thud.'
Never purchase a piece without a solid history. While there are many authentic pieces available with limited background details, many arrowheads without documentation are forgeries or unauthorized for the market place. Purchasing one could get you into serious legal troubles.
Resources
Comments
-
Hey! Are arrowheads here?)
