Lot Description
The basic Birmingham manilla evolved over time and in response to market demands from a heavy, widely spread form with round feet and prominent casting seams to light, smooth, compact forms with oval feet. The unifying factor is feet that flare suddenly from the body rather than tapering gradually. Weights range from approx. 290 to under 60 grams; a median weight would be around 70-80 gm, while specimens above 200 gm are rare. The various named types in the Johansson (1967) chart (other than Mkporo and Popo) are stages or varieties of the mainline type. Early period pieces are shown as Denk (2020) fig. 75; Middle period: fig. 74, 76, 81, 83, with numerous examples of the common late period pieces, as most of the Douro wreck specimens appear to be.
Late Period: Smaller and more compact than Middle Period, and generally lower weight. Feet are smaller and often "fat" from the side view. Casting quality is much improved so seams are rarely found. Weight range about 50-85 grams. With a higher lead content (>25%) brown specimens are as common as those with verdigris. Specimens differ in size, weight, gauge of metal, shape of feet, etc.
I have been buying manillas by the sack since the 1980s, collecting, and researching them. Information here is drawn either from Rolf Denk's The West African Manilla Currency, Russelsheim, 2020, or my own experience. Aside from some distinctive early, heavy types, the British (Birmingham) manilla followed an evolution over time in size and shape, which I describe as early, middle, and late periods without any exact dates known. Most African names given trade manillas were relevant at a time and place, but do not differentiate actual types. Manillas evolved from a barter good, one among many used in the transatlantic slave trade, into a true currency valued at 3 Pence by 1949 when they were demonetized. By the middle and certainly late period (as found in the Douro wreck), manillas were a general purpose currency across West Africa with no particular connection to the slave trade. I plan to offer a wide range of interesting manillas on ebay, and hope to keep shipping at $5 ($20 foreign) no matter how many you order at one time. Other fascinating African ethnographic currencies will follow.
What You Get
You will receive ONE specimen similar to those shown. If you order MORE THAN ONE you may request larger / heavier specimens, or varieties. There may be crude casting, verdigris, soil adhesions but no serious casting flaws or circulation damage. I usually can not accept requests based on color or patination, but please contact me before placing your order to discuss your wants.
Photos
The photo shows typical specimens, NOT necessarily what is in stock now. Sorry, I can not sell you an exact piece from the photo lot, but please contact me before purchase to discuss your wants.
Shipping
If you win or buy multiple lots, I will combine shipping but please wait for the invoice with combined shipping before you pay. Items/Lots with alphanumeric codes in the description line can be combined; items WITHOUT codes can be combined but in a DIFFERENT MAILING.
Trade Manilla (Birmingham) shipping is $5 USA and $20 foreign for any quantity ordered. EXCEPTION: "Lot" or "Set" items will be charged at the rate shown for that lot, but you may add other regular lots at no additional shipping cost as long as they fit in the flat rate box on which the rate is based.
International buyers are responsible for all customs duties and taxes.
Questions?
If you have any questions, please contact me. Looking for something not offered here? Feel free to ask. If something is wrong with your order, please contact me before leaving feedback.