From Tea Bricks to Stone Discs: Unusual Currency From Around The World

Siddhi Sharma
Sep 17, 2024

Tea Bricks: China, Tibet, Mongolia

Asia used compressed tea bricks as money, particularly in Tibet and China. They were highly valued in chilly climates, both for trade and consumption.

Rai Stones, Micronesia's Yap Island

On Yap Island, large limestone discs that weighed several tons were exchanged for cash. Their size, background, and transportation effort determined their value.

Cowrie Shells (Pacific Islands, Asia, Africa)

across the past, cowrie shells were commonly used as money across Asia, the Pacific, and Africa. They were a desirable medium of exchange because of their durability and rarity.

Salt (Ethiopia, Ancient Rome)

Salt, also referred to as "white gold," was traded for money in ancient Ethiopia and Rome. It was an extremely precious resource because it was essential for food preservation.

Feather Money (Solomon Islands)

Unique bird feathers were fashioned into belts and used as money in the Solomon Islands. The feathers were a valued trade commodity because of their rarity.

Katanga Crosses (Congo)

The Congo utilized copper Katanga crosses as money. Because of their X-shape, which denotes wealth and status, they were simple to carry and exchange.

Bottle Caps (West Africa)

The availability and collected nature of bottle caps led to their use as currency in some parts of West Africa. They were applied to minor deals.

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