Rare Double-Sided Islamic Sultanate Currency Tin "Flower" Barter Token (Bunga Money), itemnumber: W5136

Item number: W5136

Rare Double-Sided Islamic Sultanate Currency Tin "Flower" Barter Token (Bunga Money)

This is an exceptional authentic example of tin barter money, locally known as "Bunga" (Flower) money. Originating from the historical sultanates of Sumatra and Java, this ethnographic currency was a vital part of regional trade between the 17th and 19th centuries.
What makes this specific piece stand out is its highly detailed double-sided design:
Obverse: Features a scalloped edge with a beautifully preserved eight-petaled Lotus (Padma) motif, a powerful symbol of prosperity and purity in Javanese and Sumatran culture
Reverse: Displays a beautifully preserved eight-petaled floral rosette, a symbol often associated with local Islamic art and prosperity.
Specifications:
Material: Authentic Tin (with a rich, dark aged patina)
Origin: Sumatra / Java, Indonesia (typically Palembang region)
Weight: 8.2 Grams
Dimensions: 19 x 19 x 5 mm

Cast from local tin, these shaped tokens were used in the bustling river markets when official colonial coinage was unavailable for small transactions. They are a perfect addition for collectors of primitive currency, South East Asian antiquities, or Islamic numismatics.

Dimensions: diameter in mm: , weigth in gram:

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