Description:

West Africa, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Liberia, Kissi peoples, ca. early 20th century CE. A group of 13 iron Kissi pennies, each forged with a twisted shaft, a flattened blade-like terminal known as the kodo or foot, and a T-shaped projection at the opposite end called the nling or ear. The surfaces show dense iron patination from age and use. More than currency, these iron forms served as symbolic links to ancestors. Among the Kissi, each example was believed to embody a spiritual presence, and if broken, the spirit - and thus the value - was considered lost. Size of longest: 26.5" L x 4.25" W (67.3 cm x 10.8 cm)

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

Notice: We coordinate worldwide shipping to most destinations, overseeing every detail in-house to guarantee a smooth and exceptional delivery experience.

SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)

PAYMENT EXCEPTION: For clients not previously established with Artemis, payment for all gold, precious metal, and gemstone lots is required via bank wire transfer or certified bank check/money order, without exception.

Item # 193732

  • Condition: Heavy patina as shown. Losses and chips to ends, with bending and folding.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

ACH, American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

May 15, 2026 9:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 30% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

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