Coil currency – Igbo – Bronze – Nigeria

This striking bronze coil currency from the Igbo people of southeastern Nigeria represents one of the most iconic forms of traditional West African money. Coiled armlets and bracelet‑like forms—often called manillas—served as high‑value exchange objects, prestige items, and markers of wealth and social status. Crafted in bronze or copper alloy using techniques such as lost‑wax casting, these heavy coils were shaped into powerful, spring‑like forms with tightly twisted rings and bold terminals. Their sculptural presence made them both currency and ornament, worn or displayed to signify rank and prosperity. Manillas and coil currencies played a central role in Igbo economic life before colonial monetary systems. They functioned in trade, ritual payments, and family wealth, forming part of a sophisticated indigenous financial system that included cowries, brass rods, and other metal currencies. Today, Igbo bronze coil currencies are highly valued as ethnographic art objects, admired for their craftsmanship, historical significance, and bold geometric beauty. Provenance: Manfred Schäfer collection, ex- gallery owner from Ulm, Germany.

Object	Coil currency
Ethnic group:	Igbo
Country:	Nigeria
Material:	Bronze
Estimated period:	Mid 20th century
Sold with stand:	No
Dimensions:	14x8x8 cm
Weight:	1850 gram
Condition:	Good condition, used with some signs of wear