Kissi Iron Penny Currency

Nearly twenty inches, and flat where its companions twist.

The Kissi of Sierra Leone forged this iron currency bar in the 20th century. Rods of this kind, widely called Kissi pennies, functioned as money in the region and played an important part in marriage payments. This one is largely flat and straight, tapering steadily from one end to a fine point at the other. Its broader end opens into a wide T-shaped blade with one tip curled into a small hook.

Rust-red, with fine pitting the full length.

Lay it out horizontally. It reads like a stroke of calligraphy.