Four connected bronze beads, measuring 22.7mm in length, 1.0 grams. Cf. Zeno 229382.

Xiajiadian culture existed in southeastern Inner Mongolia, northern Hebei and western Liaoning in China and was outside the Zhou Chinese Empire. Upper Xiajiadian bronzes were decorated with animal and natural motifs, which suggest possible Scythian affinities and indicate continued cultural contact and exchange across the Eurasian steppes. The people are mostly nomads, but produced a variety of bronze artifacts and used various “pre-monetary” bronze coins, most commonly in shape of uniform connected round beads. Larger pieces in form of connected 3 “swirls” (which certainly show a Scythian connection) are also thought to have been used as money.

High quality example, rated 80, without repairs.

SKU  xv2082-w71111