Kwele "anchor" currency - Kwele 07.05.407
Various interpretation regarding the specific form of this currency exists:
Vanderstreate mention that the oldest currency of this type (mezong) may have been copies of a crossbow in use in the region. Later examples (mandjong) may have been inspired by anchors.
The Bawele them as prestigious and used them as payment of the bride-price.
In 1935 up to 100 mandjong could have been asked in a marriage contract.
Françoise Vinvent* and Georges Dupré published both specific studies on the Manjong currencies. *"Dot et monnaies de fer chez les Bakwele et les Djem" Musée de l'Homme, Tome III, Paris 1963
