Lot 390

Igbo Forged Iron Currency | Fan Form & Scrolls, Nigeria

Previous image preload Next image preload

Igbo Forged Iron Currency | Fan Form & Scrolls, Nigeria

Estimate: $1,500 - $2,250

Starting Bid: $750

(0 Bids)

by Artemis Fine Arts
June 12, 2026 9:00 AM MDT
Live Auction
686 S. Taylor Avenue
Suite 108
Louisville, CO, US 80027

Nigeria, . A forged iron currency staff, Igbo peoples, Nigeria, early to mid-20th century. The slender shaft rises to a fan-shaped crown of radiating curved prongs terminating in spiral volutes, flanked by smaller lateral scroll elements. The overall form combines structural elegance with decorative refinement, characteristic of Igbo blacksmith work. Iron currency objects of this type — sometimes called oji or related forms — circulated as prestige currency and bride wealth payment within Igbo trade networks, their value deriving from both the material and the skill of their fabrication. Dense red-brown iron oxide patina throughout. Mounted on a custom wooden base. Size: 17.25”H (43.8cm).

Provenance: Ex. Albert Stanziano collection (1947-2021), Clifton, NJ. By descent to owner.

SHIPPING: We coordinate worldwide shipping in-house through specialist international forwarders experienced with fine art and antiquities customs manifests. International buyers must confirm, prior to bidding, that their country's customs authority will accept the item. All duties, taxes, clearance fees, and any costs arising from customs delays, seizures, re-export, returns, or loss in transit are the buyer's sole responsibility. Artemis assumes no liability for items refused entry, detained, or lost after export. We cannot ship ancient items to their country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.).

PAYMENT EXCEPTION: For clients not previously established with Artemis, payment for all gold, precious metal, and gemstone lots must be made by bank wire transfer or certified bank check/money order, without exception.

Item # 71693

  • Condition: Red oxidized patina. excellent condition.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

ACH, American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 30% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $749 $25
$750 $1,499 $50
$1,500 $2,999 $100
$3,000 $7,499 $250
$7,500 $14,999 $500
$15,000 + $1,000