What currencies were used in pre-colonial Africa?

A map of indigenously made pre-colonial African currencies and their respective minting states. In pre-colonial times, many objects were sometimes used as currency in Africa. These included shells, ingots, gold (gold dust and gold coins (the Asante)), arrowheads, iron, salt, cattle, goats, blankets, axes, beads, and many others.

How did African currency start?

African currency was originally formed from basic items, materials, animals and even people available in the locality to create a medium of exchange. This started to change from the 17th century onwards, as European colonial powers introduced their own monetary system into the countries they invaded.

What currency is used in Africa?

Today, inflation often creates a demand for more stable (but forbidden) foreign currency, while in rural areas the original bartering system is still in widespread usage. As of 1 March 2019, the Libyan dinar (LYD) has the strongest currency in Africa.