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    Melikian Collection > Collections > Artworks > Asia / Africa > A Topoke Currency Blade


TYPE: Currency
DIMENSIONS: Height: 66 inches ( 167.64 cm)
COMPONENTS: Iron forged into an elegant shape similar to a large, thin sword blade. This one has wide wing-like flanges near the shaft, testifying to its age and authenticity. In very good condition, with an attractive variegated black patina from age and use. With a metal stand.
NOTES: A currency blade of almost identical form, size and markings currently is on display in the British Museum.
ITEM ID: 5374
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A Topoke Currency Blade

DATE
Notes: 19th to early 20th century,

A Topoke currency blade.

An African iron currency blade or sword currency from the Nkutshu, Topoke & Songo Meno peoples, Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire) which is nicely presented upon a custom metal stand.

Such blades were used by various tribal groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo as a form of currency. They were used to close a variety of important transactions such as land deals or the proposal of marriage. This primitive sword currency was forged from a single piece of iron.

Metal currency pre-dated minted coinage in Africa by many centuries. These African sword currencies date range from the 1700-1900’s.