Shell Money Item Number: 3557/15 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Shell rings on a braided plant fibre cord sealed inside a plastic bag; bag is secured shut with a paper manufacturer's label stapled over the opening. Large white ring hangs from bottom of cord; channels carved through middle on front and back of ring. Smaller flat shell rings are threaded through the cord on either side of large ring. Yellow card inserted into bag, behind shell rings, with images of shells and an individual wearing it; paragraph of text describes rings and their purpose.
Shell rings were traditionally given by a groom to a bride's family as a bride price. They were also used as part of a bartering and money system.
Purchased by the donor in 1974-1975, possibly from the Wire Trade store, located on the Catholic Mission in Wewak. The items were made by the Au people of West Sepik province (Sandaun), possibly in Aitape?