This iron money is one of many forms of currency that developed from weapons. Its original form is a spear used by hunters in Nigeria. Our spear money is not usable as a weapon any more, but its origin is clearly recognizable. Such symbolic spears were used as means of payment by chiefs and priests of the Igbo (also Ibo or Ebo) people. It is also a ceremonial spear; typical is the long, pointed shaft with variable iron elements.