Advanced Search 
Axe effigy currency
Tarascan
Postclassic period
A.D. 1200–1500
Object Place: México, West México
Medium/Technique
Copper arsenic alloy
Dimensions
Overall: 9.8 x 13.5 x 0.3 cm (3 7/8 x 5 5/16 x 1/8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Margret Craver Withers
Accession Number1993.822
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAmericas
ClassificationsMetalwork
DescriptionCopper alloy cold-hammered into an axe-like shape, which functioned as currency during Postclassic times among many cultures in highland México. This may be a modern replica.
ProvenanceBy 1972, acquired in Mexico or Guatemala by Margret Craver Withers (b. 1907 - d. 2010), Boston; 1993, gift of Margret Craver Withers to the MFA. (Accession Date: November 17, 1993)