African Currency Kissi " Penny"

Used by four African tribes: Kissi, Loma, Kpelle and Bande, the Kissi "Penny" was first used in 1900. These plant like iron forms were recognized and used as currency for minor transactions. In the early 1900's 30 or 40 bundles of 20 pieces each would buy a cow, and 60 or 80 bundles would buy a wife. At present they are not used as money but continue to be used for cult rituals.