Kissi Iron Penny Currency

Three countries now share the ground where Kissi pennies once changed hands.

Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia: across those borderlands the twisted iron rods were gathered in bundles and used for everyday purchases as well as marriage payments. This one was made by Kissi smiths in the 20th century and is ten inches long. A thin, gently twisted shaft runs between a narrow, fan-shaped flare at one end and a broader, rounded paddle at the other, its edge slightly uneven from the forge.

Dark, earthy brown, with scattered rust.

One alone, or a bundle. Either way, a good line.