What Surprising Item Was Used as Currency in Ancient China?

In ancient China, before the widespread use of coins, people often used shells as a form of currency, specifically the cowrie shell. This practice dates back to as early as 1200 BCE and was not only prevalent in China but also found in various cultures around the world. The use of cowrie shells was tied to their availability and the intricate designs that made them desirable. As trade expanded, these shells became standardized in size and value, which facilitated commerce and made transactions simpler. Eventually, the Chinese economy transitioned to metal coins, but the cowrie shell remains a fascinating symbol of early trade systems and the evolution of currency throughout history.