Mbole Copper Anklet Currency

Thick through the middle, thin at the opening.

Mbole makers of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, produced this anklet currency in copper in the 20th century. Copper rings like this were commonly used for payment and marriage exchange. The profile is a flattened, heavy band rather than a round tube, and the slot is only a narrow cleft between nearly touching ends. The metal is a deep reddish brown, lightly scratched, with a slight sheen along the broad outer face.

About 8 inches wide and 5 deep. Dense as a promise.