Object Details
Description
This stone ring is money from the Pacific island of Yap. It weighs 168.5 pounds and is not intended to circulate like a coin. Instead its use has been reserved for significant or ceremonial payments, such as dowries. The stone ring has also represented accumulated wealth and conveyed social status. Some stone rings are so large and heavy that they cannot be moved, but changes in ownership of the rings are acknowledged by the community on Yap.
Credit Line
Chase Manhattan Bank
date made
20th century
ID Number
1979.1263.00428
catalog number
1979.1263.00428
accession number
1979.1263
Object Name
stone money
alternative currency
Physical Description
mineral aggronate, stone (overall material)
light brown (overall color)
dark brown (overall color)
chiseled, holed, rounded, hand (overall production method/technique)
Measurements
overall: 12 cm x 71 cm; 4 23/32 in x 27 15/16 in
place used
Federated States of Micronesia: Yap, Yap
Associated Place
Federated States of Micronesia: Yap
Related Publication
Feingold, Ellen R.. Value of Money, The
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Work and Industry: National Numismatic Collection
Exhibition
Value of Money
Exhibition Location
National Museum of American History
Data Source
National Museum of American History
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nmah_1069139