What Is Native Indian Money
Native indian money refers to currency and exchange items used by Indigenous peoples in what is now the United States and Canada. Historically, many nations used wampum belts, shell beads, and trade goods as mediums of exchange. These items held value within trade networks and were often used in diplomacy and ceremonies.
Traditional Currencies and Trade Items
Wampum, made from quahog and whelk shells, was one of the most recognized forms of native indian money in the Northeast. Different colors and patterns indicated value and use in agreements. Other nations used items such as copper, shells, and dried goods, depending on regional resources and trade relationships.
Modern Tribal Currencies and Legal Tender
Today, some tribal nations issue their own currency or commemorative tokens to promote cultural awareness and local economies. These items are usually collectibles or educational tools and are not legal tender for federal taxes. Federal and state currencies remain the standard for most transactions within tribal territories.
For more information on Indigenous economies and currency, visit the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
