Kissi Iron Penny Currency

Where the twists catch the light, lighter metal shows through.

This Kissi iron penny comes from Sierra Leone, forged in the 20th century. In the region, such rods carried monetary value in everyday exchange and were also part of bride-wealth and other ceremonial payments. Just over ten inches long, with a small flat disc-like crossbar at one end and a rounded, slightly folded paddle at the other. The shaft is twisted with a gentle bow. Gray-brown, lightly rusted, full of handmade character.

A little rust. A little shine. A great deal to say for itself.