Small Seashell Coin
OD395/S
19th-century shell coinage was made by hand, using water, sand and bamboo. Its value depended on the diameter and thickness of the piece. These coins were used as currency for trading or the payment of dowries (bridal price). The notches visible on the top represent the bite of the Calao, a totemic bird of Abdelam, East Sepik, New Guinea. Each ring has its own base.
Material: clam shell.
Origin: Boiken, Papua/New Guinea.
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