Featured in this lot is this Apache Carl Pierce (non-enrolled) Raccoon Skull Talking Stick from the Many Trails Collection at the former Indian Nations Trading Post in Livingston, Montana, circa 20th century. The talking stick features a solid wood shaft with buffalo fur, horsehair, turkey feathers, deer toes, trade beads, metal cones and lattice wrapped wood strip handle area; a racoon skull with teeth is on top. An Apache talking stick is a ceremonial, handcrafted item used in council circles and, more broadly, within many First Nations traditions to ensure respectful, uninterrupted communication. Traditionally made with materials like deerskin, feathers, and beads, it grants the holder the exclusive right to speak, fostering active listening and honoring the speaker's voice. the raccoon is generally viewed in Native American traditions as a clever, intelligent, and dexterous creature. The Apache are a group of culturally related Native American tribes from the Southwestern U.S. and Northern Mexico, renowned as skilled warriors, nomadic hunters, and for their resilience. The Apache are historically known for their, fierce independence, nomadic, hunter-gatherer lifestyle, and formidable guerrilla warfare tactics used against Spanish, Mexican, and American expansion. Famous leaders included Geronimo and Cochise. The talking stick is in nicely preserved condition, the raccoon skull is intact, most teeth are intact. Staff measures 4"W x 25"L, collective weight is 6oz.