Kissi Iron Penny Currency

Twenty-one inches. Not one of them idle.

This Kissi penny was forged in iron in Sierra Leone in the 20th century. Such twisted rods were a widely accepted currency among the Kissi and their neighbors, valued in trade and in bridewealth payments. The shaft is twisted along its full length and widens slightly toward one end, where it flattens into a flared, fan-like blade with a small hooked projection. At the other end, a small leaf-shaped tab. Even rust brown, with signs of age and handling.

Simple and rhythmic. A fine line, drawn in metal.