African Kissi Iron Pennies, Long Rod Currency Pieces

West Africa, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Liberia, Kissi peoples, ca. early 20th century CE. A group of 13 iron Kissi pennies, each forged with a twisted shaft, a flattened blade-like terminal known as the kodo or foot, and a T-shaped projection at the opposite end called the nling or ear. The surfaces show dense iron patination from age and use. More than currency, these iron forms served as symbolic links to ancestors. Among the Kissi, each example was believed to embody a spiritual presence, and if broken, the spirit - and thus the value - was considered lost. Size of longest: 26.5" L x 4.25" W (67.3 cm x 10.8 cm) Item # 193732

Estimate:$100

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