Prehistoric Hand Axe Lithic Tool

This is a hand-sized lithic tool, commonly referred to as a hand axe or chopper, discovered in Guthrie, Oklahoma. Measuring approximately 5.5 inches by 4 inches, the item is constructed from a coarse-grained siliceous stone, likely a variety of local chert or quartzite. The color palette consists of earthy tan, beige, and light brown tones, with a notable reddish-pink oxidation patch on the left side, which may indicate mineral staining from the burial environment. The tool exhibits intentional percussion flaking along one primary edge to create a sharpened bifacial working surface. One side of the stone retains a flatter, more natural surface, providing an ergonomic grip area for the palm. The overall condition shows significant weathering and a heavy desert-varnish or mineral patina consistent with long-term exposure and age. There are minor chips along the working edge that appear to be a mix of prehistoric use-wear and natural post-depositional abrasion. This artifact represents an example of prehistoric utilitarian craftsmanship, likely from the Paleo-Indian or Archaic period, designed for chopping, scraping, or butchering tasks. The lack of refined pressure flaking suggests it is a core tool rather than a finished projectile point.

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