Cowries



Cowries - Joshua Miller [] [] []
 * Cowries were most popular form of currency in Africa up until the 1900s, including in Nigeria.
 * Cowrie shells were usally used to buy basic things that were needed.
 * Cowries are a type of shell that was considered to hold great value in Africa.
 * Cowrie shells were also used for decorations and jewelery.
 * Cowrie shells were brought over from the Maldives in the Indian Ocean during the 13th century.
 * Cowrie shells were used in many other ways such as bride wealth, payment fines, and divination.
 * In 1960s, most African nations discontinued the use of cowries. However, they still hold a special place in African cultures and are important symbols to their identity.
 * Citations**