Mandjong Currency Blade, Kwele, Gabon

Not exactly a weapon but much inspired by African throwing knives. Many communities in Africa stored, traded and displayed their wealth in the form of nonfunctional currency blades rather than as coins or bar ingots. This anchor shaped currency blade is coming from the Kewele people of Gabon. Also known as Mandjong.

19 1/2 X 18 1/2 inches. Very good condition. Good age patina. welded repair on the tip of one of the side branches. Late 19 – early 20th C.

For a similar currency blade see the Metropolitan Museum of arts, NY article number 2000.620.21