Currency (Kongo)
ClassificationsCurrency and Exchange Objects
Culture
Mongo
Date19th Century
Made AtDemocratic Republic of the Congo, Africa
MediumCopper
Dimensions3 1/2 × 40 in. (8.9 × 101.6 cm)
Credit LineAnonymous Gift
Object number2003.43.56
DescriptionThis spiraled, 19th century currency is attributed to the Mongo culture in the northern region of the Congo. It was discovered from excavations of Central Nigeria, in the Ibgo-Ukwu region. Although this particular piece is associated with the Mongo culture, some sources suggest this object comes from the Iyembe tribe of the Kongo people, also located in the northern region of the Congo. Typically made of copper, there are several varieties of snake-like coils, such as the wire 'mitako' currency in the Ngombe culture. Spiraled currencies such as the Kongo, were used throughout Zaire as money.On View
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