Pre-Columbian, Valley of Mexico, Aztec Empire, ca. 1200 to 1532 CE. A wonderful ensemble of 6 pieces of hoe money in the form of ceremonial knives crafted from thin sheets of copper and characterized by a crescent-shaped blade and flared stem. Examples like these are known as "tajaderos," the Spanish word for a chopping knife, due to their shape. They were standardized currency in the Aztec world, said to be equal to roughly 8,000 cacao seeds. In the early days after the Spanish conquest, this type of currency continued to be used in the absence of minted coins from Spain. Size (of largest): 6.125" W x 4.625" H (15.6 cm x 11.7 cm); Size (of case): 16.25" L x 12.25" W (41.3 cm x 31.1 cm)

Provenance: private Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA collection; ex-Dr. David Harner collection, Springdale, Arkansas, USA, acquired between the 1950s and 1960s

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#166836

A few nicks to peripheries of 3 pieces. Otherwise, all are excellent with nice patina and light earthen deposits. Fit with modern case.