Kissi Iron Penny Currency

Brisk spiral, tiny clubbed head, and a flare like a miniature trumpet bell.

This iron penny currency is Kissi, from Sierra Leone, West Africa, and dates to the 20th century. The Kissi penny is a thin iron rod with a flattened end and a twisted body, and it was forged by blacksmiths who held an important place in the community. Dark, narrow rod with evenly spaced spiral turns toward the left and a small rough nub at the tip. The right end opens into a thin, pointed fan, and a dull brown crust covers the surface. It is 0.25 inches wide and 18 high.

A tiny trumpet with no breath and plenty of style.