WORLD. INDONESIA. 20th century. Æ "iron ball money." 39.37 gm, 46.97 gm, 37.98 gm. Each approximately 20 mm. Mid-20th century concoction, made for souvenir vendors to sell to tourists and collectors in Southeast Asia. Originally the iron balls were used in cement manufacture. They were apparently etched by painting the surface with an acid-resistant resin then dipped in an acid to etch away the backgrounds. Though cataloged in Mitchiner, there is no evidence that these were ever used as a medium of exchange. (A copy of the article explaining the pieces, written and provided by Ken Bressett, is included with the lot.)

Cf. Mitchiner, World of Islam 3986-3998 (Believed to be used in Borneo, 16th-18th century).

Includes collector's simple handmade storage container.