Mali Empire currency

The Mali Empire, flourishing from the 13th to 16th centuries in West Africa, primarily used gold as its currency. Gold nuggets and other precious metals were highly valued in trade, reflecting the empire's wealth, especially during the reign of Mansa Musa. While gold was the main medium of exchange, cowrie shells—small, decorative shells from the Indian Ocean—were also commonly used for everyday transactions. This diverse monetary system facilitated commerce across vast regions, contributing to the Mali Empire’s prosperity and cultural exchange, particularly in cities like Timbuktu, which became centers for trade and learning.