Kissi Iron Penny Currency

Twenty-one inches. Generous, as pennies go.

This Kissi penny was forged in Sierra Leone in the 20th century. Long twisted rods like it were a familiar currency, used in markets and in marriage and other social exchanges. One end opens into a wide angled crossbar with a pointed tip and a spot of reddish rust. The other finishes in a small star-like knob. The shaft twists continuously between them, slightly bowed through the middle. Silvery gray, touched with brown rust.

A soft, weathered tone, and enough length to lean in a corner without apology.