Lot 2979

Description

Indonesia, iron currency of the north-east Indonesian Sultanates, large iron denomination (c.40 grams each), of uncertain period, spinning top shape generally with pointed ends, some with spiral symbols only, most with Arabic legend and inscription, (cf.M.3986-3993). Fine - very fine and rare. (13)

The issue is uncertain, Mitchiner comments on iron bars being used as currency in Brunei and parts of Borneo and the metal was mined and exported to other East Indonesian islands. These iron coins are round and mostly bear Arabic inscriptions, some have been found in Borneo. their legends resemble those on Indonesian Kris used for currency purposes and their shape a development from bean shaped coins of Srivijaya, similar to bullet money of Thailand. Their manufacture is discussed in Mitchiner `World of Islam' (p.474-6).