Choice Aztec Copper Hoe Money

**First Time At Auction**

Pre-Columbian, Valley of Mexico, Mexico City region, Aztec, ca. 1500 CE. A flat, flared "hoe" shaped piece of copper currency from the Aztec Empire. A lengthy handle extends from a crescent-shaped blade with a rounded tip on either end. Examples like this 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: 6.1" W x 4.875" H (15.5 cm x 12.4 cm).

Provenance: ex-private Southern California, USA collection

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#132247
Condition Report: Age-commensurate surface wear, slight bending to overall form, otherwise intact and choice. Nice earthen deposits as well as green patina throughout.