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Bead Currency
| Issuer | |
|---|---|
| Year | 1000 BC - 600 BC |
| Type | Proto coin |
| Value | Log in to see details |
| Currency | Log in to see details |
| Composition | Log in to see details |
| Weight | Log in to see details |
| Diameter | Log in to see details |
| Thickness | Log in to see details |
| Shape | Log in to see details |
| Technique | Log in to see details |
| Orientation | Log in to see details |
| Engraver(s) | Log in to see details |
| In circulation to | Log in to see details |
| Reference(s) | Log in to see details |
| Obverse description | Irregularly shaped cast bronze proto-monetary object exhibiting a cluster of rounded, lobe-like raised bosses or bead forms arranged across the surface in a grid-like pattern, interspersed with open circular voids or perforations. The surface is entirely undecorated and bears no inscriptions, legends, or figural devices. Heavy patination in blue-green azurite and malachite tones covers the entire face, consistent with prolonged burial in a copper-rich environment. The piece reflects the earliest pre-coinage monetary technology of the ancient world, functioning as a standardized unit of exchange by weight and form. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Log in to see details |
| Obverse lettering | Log in to see details |
| Reverse description | The reverse presents an equally irregular, coarsely textured cast surface with corresponding circular perforations visible through the body of the object, confirming the through-cast nature of the voids. The surface is pitted and granular, exhibiting extensive corrosion products including blue azurite deposits and greenish patina typical of ancient bronze. No devices, legends, or mint marks are present. The overall morphology is consistent with other known examples of ancient Chinese or Near Eastern bead or spade proto-currency from the late Bronze Age and early Iron Age transition period. |
| Reverse script | Log in to see details |
| Reverse lettering | Log in to see details |
| Edge | Log in to see details |
| Mint | Log in to see details |
| Mintage | ND (1000 BC - 600 BC) |
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