Three Chinese, ox bone. Cowry Shell or B. Inscriptions and archeological evidence show that cowrie shells were regarded as important objects of value in the Shang Dynasty circa 1766- 1154 BC. These items are made of ancient ox bone that is NOT from an endangered species. This wonderful set of 3 bone Cowrie shell coins has all three of the styles used in ancient China: Small, Medium, and Large. Or in Chinese by the radical also. Later, the ruling authorities would cast bronze or carve ox bone imitations of the cowry shell that were more durable. These three coins are made from ox bone and measures about. 85″ & 1.0″ in length. You can also judge its size by the US penny in the photos. Furthermore, natural shells were impossible to counterfeit. Later imitations were made of various materials: bone, stone, jade, clay, bronze, and even silver and bronze with gold plating. This example is made of ox bone and is in very good condition. I have carefully examined these coins under 10x magnification and they show authentic and original signs of weathering and ground contact that help to further authenticate it as an ancient piece. You will not be disappointed! They have a wonderful old, patina that is absolutely fabulous: a tan patina from the minerals in the surrounding soil. This combination of colors forms a fantastic patina that is typical of bone that has been buried for over 2,800 years. Close examination with a microscope under natural and black light reveal it to be 100% authentic and carved by hand. It is a wonderful piece and would look great displayed next to your other fine ancient Chinese jade and bronze pieces! The item “Set of 3 Chinese Cowry Shell or Bèi money coins, Shang Dyn 1766-1154 BC” is in sale since Sunday, January 11, 2015. This item is in the category “Collectibles\Rocks, Fossils & Minerals\Shells\Cowrie”. The seller is “ukr10″ and is located in Clearwater Beach, Florida. This item can be shipped worldwide.
- Country/Region of Manufacture: China
