Mbole Copper Anklet Currency

Hammered by hand, and you can almost hear the hammer.

A copper anklet currency of the Mbole, Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, made in the 20th century. Metal rings like this commonly served as portable wealth and bridal payment. The body swells into a thick, hooded curve, then narrows toward a slot with slightly chamfered ends. Fine hammer facets cover the whole exterior, giving it a dense, beaten texture. The color runs from dark chocolate to a brassy glint where the ridges catch the light.

About 9 inches by 5. Heavy in the hand, serious on a shelf.