African Goldweights

During the mid-evil times of Ghana gold dust and gold nuggets were the currency of choice. Hence, Akan Goldweights were cast in brass and were used as a measuring system for the measurement of gold. This system of currency and gold measuring occurred between the 9th and 16th century. Detailed accounts are recorded by Arab travelers and historians. Each goldweight feature tribal motifs or are a smaller version of everyday items that were used at the time.

Other items that were commonly traded were salt, ivory, cloth, kola nuts, beads and metal goods.