This is one of the rare metallic currencies used in the Americas prior to the arrival of Europeans. Generally found bundled together in hoards or graves, these objects circulated alongside other forms of wealth-storage, such as cacao beans. Their function as coins is confirmed by early Spanish records describing their use in the market place and relative exchange rates. MEXICO, Aztec culture. Circa AD 1200/1300-1525 Æ “Hachuela” (143mm x 150mm, 55.70 g) Mushroom-shaped bronze pseudo-axe-head with curved “blade” and flanged shank Hosler, Lechtman, & Holm, Axe-monies and their Relatives, type 2a
They were scarce previously. I got mine over a decade ago at CICF. THere is also a long skinny type that looks more like a hoe. Hoards pop up from time to time, as people find then in southern Mexico. THey quickly disperse, so if you ever want one I suggest buying it when you see it. Btw, do not touch too much, I read the way the Aztecs separated copper was with arsenic. Oh, and also, I have read others believe this type was more of a bowl former, shaped this way as a tool to form the insides of the round bowls they made. IDK which is correct, but Ardatirion is correct some attribute these as "axe money".
There were a bunch of them that made it to the market back in the late 1970's - I think even Littleton Coins was selling them. Then the supply seemingly dried up and they were only scarcely found after that. But more of them must have come into the market recently. Mexico has pretty stringent regulations on the export of archeological finds, a factor that must be taken into account.
Btw, one thing that doesn't stand out in pics of these is the fact its not flat. The shaft has ridges along the edges on both sides, reinforcing it. This make for difficult storage. The other type of hoe money is also a pain to store since its moderately curved in the blade portion, like a shovel would be.
Hosler, Lechtman, and Holm do an excellent job of reviewing these pieces. They were certainly not tools. At the very least, they functioned as a form of wealth storage, if not a full on currency. It sounds like you have a type 1a or 1b hachuela. The dating is the same as the one i posted.
Thanks. I admit I need to get Hosler. Btw, if anyone sees any of these for sale let me know. I wouldn't mind owning a couple more, especially if there are slightly different styles.
I learn something everyday on this site. The coin does resemble an Alaskian skinning knife. But its a very entertaining piece. :smile
