Shell Currency for the Exchange of Valuables (Wafu), early 20th Century
Lumi people; Torricell…

Currency (Wafu)

ClassificationsCurrency and Exchange Objects

Culture Lumi

Dateearly 20th Century

Made AtSandaun Province, Papua New Guinea

MediumPlant fiber and nassa shell

Dimensions24 1/2 × 15 1/4 × 1/2 in. (62.2 × 38.7 × 1.3 cm)

Credit LineGift of Anne and Long Shung Shih

Object number2013.5.20

DescriptionThe shell currencies of the Lumi area in the Torricelli Mountains are called "wafu". This is an excellent example with a beautiful overall shape, a full complement of nassa shells and a back showing real age and field use. Wafu were used for a number of transactions requiring the exchange of valuables such as bride price, death compensation and the buying of pigs.

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