Southern Nigeria, late 19th century. Forged iron, 72 3/4" length with spear point to one end and two forged and twisted members defining a sphere to the other. The medial enclosed in a cage of double twisted bars secured by trade copper bands flanked by circular pierced openings to the shaft. The base with matching wrap, circular piercing and a small expanded tip hook. Stable surface rust throughout with fine patina. The shaft with scored edge and flattened balusters flanked by geometric bands below the medial. Old collection Tag. See Johansson, Nigerian Currencies, p.13 where he states that "they are used by the chiefs of the Nasubi and Edo tribes for payment; extremely rare." Largest and finest we have seen. Exceptional for age, quality and condition.
