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19th Century African Iron Currency Mfunte Mfumte Nigeria Cameroon
$1,250
£949.69
€1,091.39
CA$1,755.78
A$1,911.12
CHF 1,012.63
MX$22,984.12
NOK 12,875.39
SEK 11,798.87
DKK 8,152.65
About the Item
The price is for an individual currency and includes the custom made stand.
The shape of a Mfunte currency has a seemingly simple yet complex design. The forged iron surface was scratched in an end-to-end direction to create a visually interesting surface, a central raised vein to create two sections, and swelling was incorporated on the front at the straight end. The aging of the iron has further added to the texture and attractiveness of the design.
Colonial coinage replaced Africa's traditional iron currencies.
This iron currency, shaped like a stretched hide, was circulated as a means of payment across northeastern Nigeria and northern Cameroon. It was also used for dowry payments in marriage contracts. As late as the 1950s, it was still used for payments in local markets (Ballarini, The Perfect Form, 2009; Ginzberg, African Forms, 2000).
We have a few of this style of currency, some are mounted horizontally. See the images for additional available pieces and their mounting style.
- Dimensions:Height: 9 in (22.86 cm)Width: 24.5 in (62.23 cm)Depth: 0.5 in (1.27 cm)
- Materials and Techniques:Iron,Forged
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1870 - 1970
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:Point Richmond, CA
- Reference Number:Seller: MOG #CMA1stDibs: LU1778234462252
About the Seller
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