Description:

**Originally Listed At $250**

Central Africa, Cameroon / Congo / Gabon region, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A pair of iron currency pieces forged in a broad, leaf-like shape tapering into a narrow point. These metal forms, often referred to as "hoe blade currency," served as wealth items, particularly in exchanges tied to major life events such as marriage / bride prices. Because of the value of the processed raw materials, these also functioned as investments, in addition to serving as mediums of exchange and payment. Their standardized forms allowed them to be traded across long distances and many different cultures in the Cameroon and Congo region used similar types. Size of larger: 15" L x 5" W (38.1 cm x 12.7 cm)

Provenance: private Louisville, Kentucky, USA collection, acquired 1990-1998

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

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#193515

  • Condition: Abrasions and pitting to surfaces, but intact with a rich patina.

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Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

February 8, 2026 10:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000