This unusual currency from the Idiofa region of the Democratic Republic of Congo is woven from raffia and then rolled into bundles with braided ends. Although very similar, there are subtle differences in the thickness of the rolls and the length and symmetry of the braids. Some are lighter or darker in color. We have seen them bundled in groups of 4 - 8 but all of ours are single pieces.
Most of these raffia currencies are probably authentic but they show no evidence of age or use. Cloth was valued throughout Africa, but only new, unused cloth was accepted as money.
Arrangement of Babunda raffia currency with Dogon soleil pieces in our On
Display exhibition.
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