KATANGA CROSS, old Congolese currency of copper, DR Congo,

This X-shaped copper ingot, commonly referred to as a Katanga Cross, originates from Katanga, a rich mining region in the southeastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (formerly Zaire) along the Kasai River. It is the classic currency associated with the region and is likely the best-known form of African tribal money. For centuries, these crosses served as symbols of wealth and were used for paying bride prices and for trade. Because they have been found at burial sites, they have also been associated with funeral rituals.

The most common forms of traditional money in Africa were made of metal—either forged or cast—which had the major advantage of storing wealth in a form that could be melted down and reshaped into a tool or a weapon if necessary. Try doing that with a stock certificate! The Congolese regarded non-ferrous metals—copper, lead, and tin—as highly valuable materials. Objects made from these metals were widely used as a medium of exchange and played a key role in sealing social contracts, such as marriage.

In the early 20th century, a single cross could buy five to six chickens, two pieces of quality cloth, eight to nine pounds of rubber, or six axes. The Katanga region declared independence from the DRC shortly after Belgium granted independence to the region in 1960. In 1961, Katanga issued its first coins: copper one and five Franc pieces for circulation. A gold version of the five Franc coin was also issued as a non-circulating commemorative coin. As a tribute to the region's heritage, the coins featured the Katanga Cross. After two years of conflict, Katanga was forcibly reunited with the DRC in 1963.

Source: Hamill Gallery

This is a fine example of a Katanga Cross. See the photos!

Dimensions: 20.5 cm x 20.8 cm
Weight: 751 grams
Dating: 1st half of the 20th century
Material: Copper
Origin: DR Congo
Provenance: Acquired from a Flemish private collection