MANILLA CURRENCY, West Africa
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Photographs © Tim Hamill
MANILLA, "Bracelet" Currency, West Africa
These copper alloy "bracelet" forms were recognized
and used as currency for transactions in West Africa from the end of the
15th C. to the mid-20th C. The metal content varies from copper to brass,
but many were mixed with lead and even iron. The Africans valued them by
their ring when struck. Most were manufactured in England or France and,
like trade beads, were used for trade with Africa and ended up there. There
are many different types.
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