Along the West African coast, ostentatious displays of wealth were common, but until the mid-20th century, one could literally flaunt their prosperity on their sleeves. This was made possible by the manilla, a horseshoe-shaped bronze currency used in trade in Nigeria from the 15th to the 20th century. Originating from European traders via Portuguese intermediaries in the 15th century, manillas initially appeared as brass bracelets depicted in artifacts from the Kingdom of Benin. Over time, their function shifted from ornamental wear to standardized currency.
Initially serving both as currency and adornment, manillas were highly sought after for trade in West Africa, exchanged for ivory, spices and palm oil. The value of manillas fluctuated due to massive imports, leading to depreciation by the 16th century. Despite Nigeria's eventual adoption of English coinage in the early 20th century and efforts to phase out manillas, they continued in use until 1948, when a government program exchanged them for monetary values.
Throughout their five centuries of use, manillas varied significantly in size, composition, and shape, ranging from large Portuguese originals to smaller, later models predominantly crafted from brass. Despite legislative attempts, some manillas survived and are now highly valued as historical artifacts.
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Africa Direct is proud to introduce 'Manillas' from the Bierling Collection. The items have been kindly donated and a portion of sales go to supporting Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO).
See the Bierling Collection here
After graduating from college in 1962. Al and Kay Bierling went to Nigeria under the auspices of World Mission of the Christian Reformed Church. While in Nigeria teaching was done at Mkar Teachers' College near Gboko and at Hillcrest High School in Jos as teachers and in administration. After over 28 years with the mission, they joined the US State Department and lived in Yaounde, Cameroon for 5 years.
Image: A mother in a hospital in an internally displaced camp in the Congo that they support. The mother had twins, no milk and near death. Hospital staff saved her as well as the children.
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They returned to the US in 1990. Kay then taught English Language Learners with Denver Public Schools and Al taught lower level mathematic classes at Metro State University.
During their time in Africa, they became interested in animism, primitive monies, beads, and other objects that were used in everyday life. These artifacts were obtained by going to markets, students, and traders bringing them to our home
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They were happy to learn of Africa Direct and our support of charity, and gave us their wonderful collection with the request that we use part of the procceeds to support good causes.
Kay and Al have volunteered in East Africa and Thailand teaching English language acquisition and math critical thinking skills. Other outreach opportunities were done in Kenya and South Africa.
Recently they helped establish EnGedi Children's Home in Kenya, Jeri Savoto Safe Haven for FGM (female genital mutilation) women in Kenya, as well as supporting medical needs in various parts of Africa.
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SHOFCO Charity:
SHOFCO is non-profit organization supports urban slum communities by providing essential services, advocating for change, and empowering women and girls through education and leadership development.
Africa Direct has a significant record of supporting African non-profit organizations that implement community-driven initiatives to make a lasting impact on the local population. To date, we have donated over $175,000, with a specific emphasis on Shining Hope for Communities.
Thank you for your participation in this effort!
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