**Originally Listed At $200**

West Africa, Nigeria, ca. 19th century CE. A fine collection of 7 of brass, nickel-brass, and leaded-brass bracelets known as manilla, which were used as currency pieces. Each piece is torq shaped, with a small opening. The largest is a silvery nickel-brass with bulbous terminal ends and incised with linear and stippled patterns on the band and terminals. Two manillas consist of bands with coiled and smoothed brass with tapered tips and cross hatched incisions. The other four are narrower with flared terminals and flat tips. Manillas were a form of money, usually made of bronze or brass that were popular in West Africa until the 1940s. They were used for trade with Europeans and worn as symbols of wealth. Manillas varied in shapes and sizes, creating different values, and some communities preferred certain types over others. Interestingly the sound they make would also determine their value. Size of smallest: 2.75" Diameter x 0.5" W (7 cm x 1.3 cm); opening: 1" W (2.5 cm); largest: 3.25" Diameter x 0.375" W (8.3 cm x 1 cm); opening: 1.5" W (3.8 cm)

Provenance: private Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA collection; ex-Dr. David Harner collection, Springdale, Arkansas, USA, acquired between the 1950s and 1960s

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#164187

Age and use expected surface wear on all. The 4 narrow bands have light mineral deposits and earthen encrustations. Green patina and oxidation. Good preservation of forms.