CONGO Africa coiled brass arm ring money unusual primitive currency 19th century

Description

Africa - Congo 19th Century
Coiled Brass Flexible Arm ring
For years I have owned a small collection of antiquities and  "odd and curious" - so called "Primitive Money" and related ethnographic items - and the time has come to sell my collection.
You are bidding on an authentic c. 1870-1880 African/Congo Coiled brass wire arm ring used as money.  Flexible rings of twisted or plaited wire were made for the wrist, upper arm and calf and worn, and also used for currency.  This example is about 5" in diameter and weighs 1/2 oz. Examples of this type are hard to find, most arm rings are manilla type, solid open bracelet type.
Informational details about the collection: My father was a well-known numismatist, who had professional interest in ancient coins as well as personal interest in antiquities and unusual currency.  He was the primary source for many of my acquisitions, in addition to auctions and other dealers.  I began my collecting in this field in the 1950s when I was a teenager, and while I haven't added to it in over 25 years, I've enjoyed displaying these pieces for years.  Now it's time for the next "steward" - who can care for these objects with the same affection
Because many of these objects are relatively rare, handmade, and at this point pretty much unique -  descriptions can vary by source, and pricing can be difficult.  I therefore rely here on identifications and sales of similar/comparable items where I can find them: online and public auctions, catalogs, books.
Where possible I will provide provenance and cite the sources I've used for identifying the objects
.  If you find errors, or think my descriptions aren't correct, please let me know.  I've been a dedicated collector but I'm not an expert.
Shipping by USPS insured or Fedex ground or air to all US locations (no APO addresses, I regret), I will choose based on the object's fragility, size and weight.  If you prefer faster service, contact me for add'l costs.
Note for overseas bidders: I am using 1st class international mail
.
Payment is by Paypal, and due within 3 days of auction close; if you can't meet that time frame you must communicate with me or a non-payment claim will be filed automatically.  Items here are from my personal collection, guaranteed to be authentic, and are not re-sales.
Anything else you need to know, just ask!
And thanks for bidding!
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