Mbole Copper Anklet Currency

In Central Africa a ring of copper could be a fortune. It could also be a down payment on a wife.

This heavy anklet was made by the Mbole peoples of the Democratic Republic of Congo in the 20th century and used as currency. Substantial copper rings were worn as a sign of wealth and exchanged in bridewealth payments.

Eight inches across, broad and rounded on the outside, narrowing to a slim opening, so that from above it takes the shape of a keyhole. The patina is mottled gray and silvery green, with warm copper along the inner edges.

Money, once, and not at all shy about it.