Mbuti Spear-Form Currency

Slim as a reed, and worth considerably more once. Across Central Africa, metal objects modeled on weapons and tools were used as a medium of exchange and in important transactions like bridewealth.

This spear-form currency is attributed to the Mbuti peoples of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and recorded in bronze. A narrow leaf-shaped blade, slightly thickened along its center, sits on a long, thin, perfectly straight shaft that tapers to a fine point at the opposite end. Just over seventeen inches. The surface is dark, weathered brown, uneven and mottled from age and handling.

One looks fine alone. Several look like a conversation.