Ancient, British and World Coins, British Trade Tokens, Tickets and Passes, Numismatic Books

New Guinea, Boar’s Tusk, cultivated to one spiral, 9.5 x 8.5cm (Quiggin pp.125-6). Patinated and polished, two collector’s labels adhering, extremely fine, rare (£100-150)

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Macdonald Collection of Primitive Currency.

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Plate VI. Removal of a boar’s canine teeth ensured that its tusks would grow unchecked and if left undrawn could complete two or exceptionally three spirals. Used for both currency and ceremonial purposes, those with complete spirals were prized and their value increased according to the number of spirals generated