Kissi Iron Penny Currency

Almost straight, with a tightly corded shaft and a broad flattened tail.

This iron penny currency is Kissi, from Sierra Leone, West Africa, and dates to the 20th century. Among the Kissi of Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia, twisted iron rods known as Kissi pennies were used as money in trade, bridewealth and other exchanges. Dark brown rod with a clearly rope-like spiral in the center and a rounded button at left. The right end widens gradually into a plain, flat paddle with scalloped, ragged edges. It is 2.5 inches wide and 22.25 high.

A humble stick with a very proper paddle.