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Congo, Mbole or Ngelima People, Brass Bar

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Congo, Mbole or Ngelima People, Brass Bar (obverse) Congo, Mbole or Ngelima People, Brass Bar (reverse)

This ring bar money developed from arm or legbands. On account of its form and weight, it is no longer wearable as jewelry, however. It was used as money for its metal value. Such brass bars were used as means of payment in many parts of Africa until the mid-20th century. This piece originates from the Congo region, probably from the Mbole or Ngelima people.

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