Papua New Guinea Nassa Shell Headdress Wosera Tribe Currency

This is a Vintage Woven Fiber Nassa Shell Headdress with Cowrie Shells and One Large Conus Shell from the Wosera Tribal People of Papua New Guinea. This would be considered a brides price with tiny Nassa shells sewn on plant fiber backing with natural pigment dyed woven pieces adorned with cowrie shells. This piece was worn by a man as a headband indicating wealth and status.

Nassa shells were highly valuable for hundreds of years. Nassa shells were often used as currency, and their value depended on how bright and shiny they looked. The Nassa shell was prized for its brightness, as well as certain magical qualities. Because of the shell's value, only people of importance and wealth could afford to wear them. This is a beautiful headband and would be a wonderful addition to your collection or home.

Mid-20th century COMES ON A STAND Shows age, discoloration, one end is torn on the right side, but overall it is in good condition. Headdress on Stand 10" tall Headdress 5" tall 10" wide 1/4" deep AT BACARA WE STAND BEHIND ALL OF OUR MERCHANDISE.

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