Igbo (Ibo) Bronze Bracelet Currency (Manilla)

Igbo / Ibo people, early to mid-20th century, Nigeria

Striking solid cast bronze bracelet currency, masterfully created using the lost-wax method and adorned with finely executed traditional circular motifs. This elegant, sculptural form represents the refined metalworking heritage of the Igbo (Ndi Igbo), one of Africa’s largest and most influential ethnic groups. Their homeland lies along the Niger River in southeastern Nigeria—one of the most densely populated regions on the continent—and has long been a center of trade, craftsmanship, and cultural innovation.

Historically, the Igbo acquired large quantities of copper through extensive trade networks exchanging ivory, pepper, and later slaves. Over time, they developed exceptional skill in copper smelting and metalworking, producing rods of copper alloy that were hammered, coiled, cut, and shaped into a variety of ornaments—bracelets, armlets, anklets, and other forms of wearable wealth. These pieces served simultaneously as adornment, status markers, and highly portable forms of currency. Today, such early examples have become increasingly sought after for their bold form, tactile presence, and historical importance.

Manillas—bronze or copper commodity money—were used across West Africa for centuries and were produced in numerous sizes and designs. Originating before European contact and later expanded through Portuguese trade, they functioned as currency, wealth, and ornament well into the late 1940s, and still appear as decorative objects today. Their horseshoe-shaped bodies with facing terminals made them easy to transport and store, and different regions recognized and valued specific forms with remarkable precision.

Calabar, in southeastern Nigeria, was the earliest and most important center for manilla exchange. Early accounts from 1505 record that a slave could be purchased for 8–10 manillas, and an elephant’s tusk for one copper manilla. Each region named, categorized, and valued its own types, making them one of the most fascinating and complex traditional monetary systems in Africa.

A powerful and beautifully preserved example of traditional Igbo currency and ornament—rich in history, sculptural presence, and collector appeal.

Good condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Size approx. 7,6cm x 6,1cm x 1,2cm. 

Provenance: Dutch private collection.

For a similar example see: AACHS Art Collection, Philadelphia, PA (https://www.artworkarchive.com/profile/aachsartcollection/artwork/manilla-currency-bracelet-aachs-art-collection-3819a5)

References and further reading:

The Teach Yourself Guide to Numismatics, C.C. Chamberlain, English Universities Press. 1963, p. 92.

The West African Manilla Currency: Research and Securing of Evidence from 1439-2019, Rolf Denk, Tredition GmbH, Hamburg, 2020.

Primitive Money in its ethnological, historical and economic aspects, Paul Einzig, Eyre & Spottiswoode, London, 1949.

Object biographies, Manilla or Penannular Bracelet Currency, Eric Edwards, Balfour Library, Pitt Rivers Museum, January 29th, 2010. (https://web.prm.ox.ac.uk/rpr/index.php/objectbiographies/78-manilla.html)