This object is a Native American bannerstone, specifically carved in the double-notched butterfly or winged style.Dating back to the Archaic period (c. 6000–1000 BCE), bannerstones are prehistoric stone artifacts found throughout the eastern woodlands of North America. They were meticulously pecked, ground, and polished from beautiful materials like banded slate, granite, or quartz. [1]Purpose and UseArcheologists generally believe bannerstones served as atlatl (spear-thrower) counterweights. [1]Mechanical Edge: When slid onto the shaft of an atlatl, the stone added mass, balance, and stability. This increased the velocity and power of the thrown spear. [1]Social and Ritual Significance: Beyond utility, their exceptional craftsmanship, symmetry, and choice of striking stone patterns suggest they carried great symbolic weight. They may have served as status symbols, ceremonial objects, or tribal emblems. [1, 2]Key Visual FeaturesCentral Bore: A precise, hollow vertical hole drilled through the middle ridge allowed the stone to be mounted onto a wooden spear-thrower shaft.Symmetrical Wings: The wide, sweeping sides mimic the wings of a butterfly or bird.Notches: The deep indentations at the top and bottom of the central hub allowed for secondary cordage or secure tie-on attachment

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