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30 Unique Traditional Currencies You’ve Never Heard Of

Traditional currencies, also known as fiat currencies, are issued and regulated by a central bank or government. They are typically made of paper or metal and are used to purchase goods and services. However, there are many other unique traditional currencies that have been used throughout history and around the world.

These currencies can be made from a variety of materials, including seashells, stones, feathers, and even salt. They can also be based on abstract concepts, such as time or labor. These are the 30 unique traditional currencies from around the world.

1. Iron bars (West Africa)

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Iron bars were used as currency in some parts of West Africa, particularly in the 17th and 18th centuries. These bars, known as “barriferri”, were typically made of wrought iron and were about three feet long and two inches wide. They were valued for their durability, their scarcity, and their usefulness in making tools and weapons.

Barriferri were used to purchase a wide range of goods and services, including food, clothing, slaves, and gold. They were also used to pay taxes and to settle debts. Barriferri were also used in dowries and other ceremonial exchanges.

2. Cloth (India, Africa)

Cloth was used as currency in some cultures, particularly in India and Africa. Cloth was a valuable commodity because it was essential for clothing and other necessities. It was also relatively durable and could be stored for long periods of time.

In India, cloth was used to purchase food, clothing, and other goods and services. It was also used to pay taxes to the government. On the other hand, cloth was used to purchase land, wives, and other goods and services in Africa. It was also used to pay for dowries and other ceremonial exchanges.

The use of cloth as currency is a fascinating example of how early cultures used objects of value as currency.

3. Livestock (Africa, Asia)

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Livestock, such as cattle, sheep, and goats, were used as currency in many cultures throughout history. Livestock were a valuable commodity because they could be used for food, transportation, and labor. They were also relatively easy to transport and store, making them ideal for use as currency.

Livestock were used as currency in a variety of ways. They were used to purchase goods and services, to pay taxes, and to settle debts. Livestock were also used in dowries and other ceremonial exchanges.

4. Slaves (Africa, Asia, Europe)

Slaves were used as currency in some cultures, particularly in Africa, Asia, and Europe. This practice was widespread and existed for centuries. Slaves were considered to be property and could be bought, sold, and traded like any other commodity.

There are a number of reasons why slaves were used as currency. First, slaves were a valuable source of labor. They could be used to work in agriculture, mining, construction, and other industries. Second, slaves were a status symbol. Owning slaves was a sign of wealth and power. Third, slaves were a form of investment. They could be sold or traded for other goods and services.

5. Beer (Mesopotamia)

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Beer was used as currency in Mesopotamia, one of the earliest civilizations in the world. Mesopotamian beer was typically made from barley and was a staple drink in the region. It was also used as a form of payment for workers and as a medium of exchange for goods and services.

It was used because beer was a valuable commodity. It was nutritious and refreshing, and it could be stored for long periods of time. Secondly, beer was relatively easy to produce and transport. And lastly, beer had cultural significance in Mesopotamian society. It was often used in religious ceremonies and social gatherings.

Beer was used as currency in a variety of ways in Mesopotamia. It was used to pay workers for their labor, to purchase goods and services, and to pay taxes. Beer was also used in dowries and other ceremonial exchanges.

6. Tea (Tibet)

Tea was used as currency in Tibet and was considered to be a valuable commodity. Tea was first introduced to Tibet in the 7th century AD and quickly became a staple of Tibetan culture. Tibetans drank tea throughout the day and used it in religious ceremonies and social gatherings.

Tea was also used as a form of payment in Tibet. It was used to purchase goods and services, to pay taxes, and to settle debts. Tea was also used in dowries and other ceremonial exchanges.

The use of tea as currency declined in Tibet in the 20th century with the introduction of metal coinage and paper currency. However, tea remains a popular drink in Tibet and is still used in some cases as a form of payment.

7. Yams (Papua New Guinea)

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Yams were used as currency in Papua New Guinea. Yams are a type of root vegetable that is a staple food in many parts of the world, including Papua New Guinea. Yams are a good source of carbohydrates and other nutrients, and they can be stored for long periods of time.

Yams were used as currency in Papua New Guinea for a number of reasons. First, yams are a valuable food source. Second, yams are relatively durable and can be stored for long periods of time. Third, yams have cultural significance in many Papua New Guinean cultures.

8. Kilimanjaro stones (Tanzania)

Kilimanjaro stones are small stones that were used as currency in Tanzania. They are also known as Chagga stones or Meru stones. Kilimanjaro stones are found in the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania and are typically made of lava or volcanic rock. 

They are typically small and round, but they can also be found in larger sizes and irregular shapes. Kilimanjaro stones were used as currency in Tanzania for centuries before the introduction of European currencies in the late 19th century. 

Kilimanjaro stones were a valuable commodity because they were rare and difficult to obtain. Kilimanjaro stones were typically collected from the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro and were transported to other parts of Tanzania by caravan. Kilimanjaro stones were also traded with other cultures in East Africa.

9. Feathers (Aztec Empire)

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Feathers of exotic birds, such as quetzal and macaw, were used as currency and for ceremonial purposes in the Aztec Empire. Feathers were highly prized by the Aztecs for their beauty, rarity, and symbolism.

Feathers were used to make a variety of objects, including clothing, jewelry, and headdresses. They were also used to decorate religious objects and temples. Feathers were also used as currency to purchase goods and services.

The value of a feather depended on its type, color, and size. Quetzal feathers were the most valuable, followed by macaw feathers. Feather currency was used to purchase a wide range of goods and services, including food, clothing, slaves, and precious metals.

10. Tobacco (North America)

Tobacco leaves were used as currency by many Native American tribes in North America. Tobacco was a valuable commodity because it was used for both ceremonial and medicinal purposes. It was also a durable and relatively easy-to-transport good, making it ideal for use as currency.

• The Iroquois Confederacy used tobacco leaves to purchase land and to settle disputes.
• The Cherokee used tobacco leaves to pay taxes and to pay for the services of a shaman.
• The Sioux used tobacco leaves to purchase food and clothing at markets.
• The Navajo used tobacco leaves to pay dowries and to settle debts.

11. Jade (China, Mesoamerica)

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Jade is a prized gemstone that has been used as currency and for ceremonial purposes for thousands of years. It was particularly popular in China and Mesoamerica.

In China, jade was considered to be a symbol of good luck and prosperity. It was also used to make jewelry and other decorative objects. Jade was also used as a form of currency in ancient China. Jade coins were used to purchase goods and services, and they were also used to pay taxes.

In Mesoamerica, jade was also prized for its beauty and rarity. It was used to make masks, beads, and other religious objects. Jade was also used as a form of currency in Mesoamerica. Jade beads were used to purchase goods and services, and they were also used to pay tribute to chiefs and other leaders.

12. Cocoa beans (Mesoamerica)

Cocoa beans were used as currency by the Maya and Aztec civilizations in Mesoamerica. Cocoa beans were also used to make chocolate, which was a valuable commodity.

Cocoa beans were a valuable commodity because they were rare and difficult to obtain. Cocoa beans were grown in the lowland jungles of Mesoamerica and were harvested by hand. The beans were then fermented and dried before being used to make chocolate or currency.

Cocoa beans were used as currency in a variety of ways. They were used to purchase goods and services, such as food, clothing, and tools. Cocoa beans were also used to pay taxes and to pay for dowries.

13. Cowrie shells (Africa, Asia, Oceania)

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Cowrie shells are small marine shells that have been used as currency for thousands of years. They were particularly popular in Africa, Asia, and Oceania. Cowrie shells were often strung together into necklaces or bracelets, which could be used to make purchases.

Cowrie shells were a valuable commodity because they were rare and difficult to obtain. They were typically collected from beaches and reefs. Cowrie shells were also traded between different cultures and regions.

Cowrie shells were used as currency in a variety of ways. They were used to purchase goods and services, such as food, clothing, and tools. Cowrie shells were also used to pay taxes and to pay for dowries.

14. Teeth (Melanesia, Polynesia)

Teeth were used as currency in some cultures in Melanesia and Polynesia. Teeth of humans and animals, such as pigs and dogs, were considered to be valuable commodities and were used to purchase goods and services, pay taxes, and settle disputes.

There are a few reasons why teeth were used as currency in these cultures. First, teeth are durable and can last for many years. This made them a good store of value. Second, teeth are relatively rare and difficult to obtain. This made them a valuable commodity. Third, teeth have cultural significance in many Melanesian and Polynesian cultures. They are often seen as a symbol of strength, power, and fertility.

The use of teeth as currency in Melanesia and Polynesia declined in the late 19th century with the introduction of European currencies. However, teeth are still used today in some parts of Melanesia and Polynesia for ceremonial purposes and as a form of decoration.

15. Whale teeth (Fiji, Tonga)

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Teeth from sperm whales were used as currency in Fiji and Tonga. These teeth, known as tabua, were highly prized and used in important ceremonies and exchanges. Tabua were typically given as gifts to mark significant occasions, such as weddings, births, and funerals. They were also used to settle disputes and to pay for goods and services.

Tabua were used to pay for a bride’s dowry and the services of a chief or priest. Tabua were used to pay for goods and services, such as food, clothing, and tools.

16. Ambergris (South America, Africa, Asia)

Ambergris is a waxy substance produced by sperm whales. It is formed when the whale ingests hard objects, such as squid beaks, which irritate its stomach lining. The whale then produces a waxy substance to coat the objects and protect its stomach. Ambergris can take years to form and is often found floating in the ocean or washed up on shore.

Ambergris was also used as currency in some cultures, particularly in South America, Africa, and Asia. It was valued for its rarity and its unique properties. In 18th-century China, ambergris was worth more than gold. Ambergris was often used to make jewelry and other decorative objects. It was also used in traditional medicine. 

17. Wampum (Northeastern North America)

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Wampum was made from two types of shells: white quahog wampum and purple wampum from the channeled whelk. The beads were made by grinding the shells into small pieces and then drilling holes through them. The beads were then strung together into belts, necklaces, and other ornaments.

Wampum was used by Native American tribes in Northeastern North America for a variety of purposes. It was used as currency, as a form of diplomacy, and for ceremonial purposes. Wampum was used as currency in trade between Native American tribes and between Native Americans and Europeans. Wampum was also used to pay tribute to chiefs and other leaders.

18. Rai stones (Yap, Micronesia)

Rai stones, also known as fe’i, are large limestone disks with holes in the center that were used for ceremonial and economic purposes on the island of Yap in Micronesia. They were typically made from limestone quarried on the nearby island of Palau and transported to Yap by canoe. Rai stones could weigh up to several tons and could measure up to several meters in diameter.

The value of a rai stone depended on its size, weight, and history. Rai stones that had been passed down through generations were considered to be more valuable than newer stones. Rai stones were also more valuable if they had traveled long distances.

19. Beads (Africa, Asia, Europe)

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Beads have been used as currency in Africa, Asia, and Europe for centuries. They were highly prized for their beauty, rarity, and cultural significance. Beads were also relatively easy to transport and store, making them ideal for use as currency.

Glass beads were the most common type of bead used as currency. However, other types of beads, such as stone beads, metal beads, and shell beads, were also used. Beads from certain regions, such as Venice and Bohemia, were considered to be more valuable than beads from other regions.

20. Amber (Baltic region)

Amber has been used as currency in the Baltic region for centuries, and is still used today in some remote areas. It is a valuable commodity because of its beauty, rarity, and durability. Amber is also relatively easy to transport and store, making it ideal for use as currency. Transparent amber was the most valuable, followed by translucent and opaque amber. Amber with inclusions, such as insects or plants, was also highly prized.

Amber was traded by Baltic merchants to other countries in Europe and Asia. Baltic merchants traded amber for other goods, such as spices, precious metals, and cloth. Amber was also used as a form of diplomacy by the Baltic rulers. Baltic rulers often gave gifts of amber to foreign dignitaries.

21. Rice (China, Japan)

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Rice has been used as a currency in China and Japan for centuries. It was highly prized for its nutritional value, rarity, and ease of storage and transportation. Rice was also used to pay taxes and to settle debts. Rice was also used in dowries and other ceremonial exchanges.

White rice was the most valuable type of rice, followed by brown rice and other types of rice. Rice from certain regions, such as the Yangtze River Delta in China and the Kanto Plain in Japan, was considered to be more valuable than rice from other regions. Rice that was well-preserved and free of impurities was also more valuable.

22. Wine (Ancient Greece, Rome)

Wine was used as a currency in ancient Greece and Rome for centuries. It was highly prized for its taste, rarity, and cultural significance. Wine was also relatively easy to transport and store, making it ideal for use as currency.

Wine was used to purchase a wide range of goods and services, including food, clothing, tools, and weapons. It was also used to pay taxes and to settle debts. Wine was also used in dowries and other ceremonial exchanges. Wine from certain regions, such as Attica in Greece and Campania in Rome, was considered to be more valuable than wine from other regions. Wine that was aged and well-preserved was also more valuable.

23. Olives (Ancient Greece, Rome)

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Olives were used as currency in ancient Greece and Rome for centuries. They were a valuable commodity because they were a staple food item and could be used to produce olive oil. Olive oil was also used in religious ceremonies and as a fuel for lamps.

Olives were traded throughout the ancient Mediterranean world. Greek and Roman merchants traded olives for other goods, such as grain, wine, and metal. Olives were also used to pay for services, such as transportation and labor. In ancient Greece, olives were used to purchase food, clothing, and tools from merchants. They were also used to pay taxes to the government.2

24. Silk (China)

Silk was used as a currency in China for centuries. It was highly prized for its beauty, durability, and rarity. Silk was also relatively easy to transport and store, making it ideal for use as currency.

Silk was used to purchase a wide range of goods and services, including food, clothing, tools, and weapons. It was also used to pay taxes and to settle debts. Silk was also used in dowries and other ceremonial exchanges.

Mulberry silk was the most valuable type of silk, followed by tussah silk. Silk from certain regions, such as Jiangsu and Zhejiang, was considered to be more valuable than silk from other regions.

25. Spices (India, Indonesia)

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Spices were used as currency in India and Indonesia for centuries. They were highly prized for their culinary and medicinal uses, as well as their rarity and exotic origins. Spices were also relatively easy to transport and store, making them ideal for use as currency.

The value of a spice depended on its type, quality, and rarity. Black pepper was the most valuable spice, followed by cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Spices from certain regions, such as Malabar in India and the Spice Islands of Indonesia, were considered to be more valuable than spices from other regions.

26. Porcelain (China)

Porcelain was used as a currency in China from the 10th to the 19th centuries. It was highly prized for its beauty, durability, and rarity. Porcelain was also relatively easy to transport and store, making it ideal for use as currency.

Porcelain was used to purchase a wide range of goods and services, including food, clothing, tools, and weapons. It was also used to pay taxes and to settle debts. Porcelain was also used in dowries and other ceremonial exchanges.

The value of porcelain depended on its type, quality, and decoration. Imperial porcelain, which was made for the Chinese emperor and his court, was the most valuable. Export porcelain, which was made for export to other countries, was also highly prized.

27. Ivory (Africa, Asia)

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Ivory has been used as currency in Africa and Asia for centuries. It is a valuable commodity because it is beautiful, durable, and rare. Ivory was also relatively easy to transport and store, making it ideal for use as currency.

The value of ivory depended on its type, size, and quality. Elephant ivory was the most valuable, followed by hippopotamus ivory and walrus ivory. Ivory from rare or exotic animals, such as narwhals and unicorns, was also highly prized.

Ivory was traded by Africans and Asians alike. Africans traded ivory to European and Asian merchants for European and Asian goods. European and Asian merchants then traded the ivory to other European and Asian countries, where it was used to make jewelry, sculptures, and other luxury goods.

28. Furs (North America, Siberia)

Furs have been used as currency in North America and Siberia for centuries. They were highly prized for their warmth, durability, and beauty. Furs were also relatively easy to transport and store, making them ideal for use as currency.

The value of a fur depended on its type, size, and quality. Beaver pelts were the most valuable, followed by fox, mink, and otter pelts. Furs from rare or exotic animals, such as sable and marten, were also highly prized.

Furs were traded by Native Americans and European settlers alike. Native Americans trapped furs and traded them to European settlers for European goods. European settlers then traded the furs to other European countries, where they were used to make clothing and other luxury goods.

29. Opium (China)

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Opium was used as a currency in China in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It was introduced to China by Portuguese traders in the 16th century and quickly became popular among the upper class. Opium was smoked in pipes and was highly addictive.

The British East India Company began selling opium to China in the early 19th century. The British government encouraged the trade because it was a major source of revenue for the company. The Chinese government tried to ban the opium trade, but the British East India Company defied the ban and continued to sell opium to China.

The opium trade had a devastating impact on China. Opium addiction was widespread and led to social and economic problems.

30. Timber (Scandinavia, Russia)

Timber has been used as currency in Scandinavia and Russia for centuries. It was highly prized for its durability, versatility, and abundance. Timber was also relatively easy to transport and store, making it ideal for use as currency.

Oak timber was the most valuable, followed by pine timber and spruce timber. Timber from certain regions, such as the forests of Scandinavia and Russia, was considered to be more valuable than timber from other regions.

Timber was traded throughout Scandinavia and Russia. Scandinavian and Russian merchants traded timber for other goods, such as grain, furs, and precious metals. Timber was also used to pay for services, such as transportation and construction.

From seashells to feathers, to even salt and opium, traditional currencies have come in all shapes and sizes throughout history. While many of these currencies are no longer in use, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and the diverse ways that cultures have valued and exchanged goods and services.

Traditional currencies are a reminder of the rich and diverse history of human exchange. They are also a reminder that the value of money is not always determined by its physical form, but by the cultural significance that we attach to it.