Kissi Iron Penny Currency

One end like a trumpet. The other, a small round paddle. The middle, twisting as it pleases.

Just over twelve inches, this Kissi iron penny was forged in Sierra Leone in the 20th century. Twisted rods of this type were a widely recognized currency in the region, exchanged in commerce and in marriage negotiations. The crossbar flares crisply. Between the ends the shaft spirals in regular twists that catch the light. The metal is mottled gray and brown, with a light rust bloom.

Handmade irregularity, at no extra charge.