African Iron Paddle Currency

Iron, in the hands of a blacksmith, could be a blade, a hoe or a paddle. It could also be a sum of money.

That is the West and Central African tradition behind this paddle currency, forged in the 20th century. It stands about twenty-three and a half inches tall. A long, narrow shaft widens at the top into a flat, slightly flared paddle with a squared end. At the bottom the iron is drawn out and bent into a small closed loop. The surface is rusty brown, streaked darker, pitted and hand-worked throughout.

Mounted upright, it keeps good company with other currencies. They have a lot to discuss.