The Fascinating History of Tompions: Africa's Hollow Currency

Tompions are small, hollow, cylindrical objects that were used as a form of currency in some parts of Africa, particularly in the Ashanti region of Ghana. They were made from a variety of materials, including wood, ivory, and metal, and were often decorated with intricate carvings or engravings.

Tompions were used as a medium of exchange for goods and services, and were considered to be a valuable commodity in their own right. They were also used as a form of collateral for loans, and could be passed down from generation to generation as a family heirloom.

The use of tompions as a form of currency has been traced back to the 17th century, and they continued to be used well into the 20th century. However, with the introduction of modern currency and the decline of traditional trade networks, the use of tompions as a medium of exchange has largely disappeared. Today, they are primarily valued for their historical and cultural significance, and are often collected by museums and collectors.