This has to be a premier example of an imitation cowry. Every detail has been reproduced in an open-backed cowry carved in stone! Thus it might be considered a very early form of man-made money, perhaps pre-dating the copper/bronze types. Also, this one shows evidence of having been colored (red ochre?).
This is 22 x 16 x 7 mm; 2.60 gm - Very Scarce with this intricate detailed carving.
Moneta Library has articles on Cowries to VIEW and DOWNLOAD:
The Worlds's First Money, Chinese Cowries and Their Imitations - by Ted Puls: The Worlds Oldest Money Cowries Ted Puls
Cowries - Bob Reis: COWRIES Reis
Origin of Cowries in Ancient China - UofPa: Origin of Cowries in Ancient China
Metallic Cowries - Royal Asiatic Society: Metallic Cowries - Royal Asiatic Society
Nice Video on Cowrie history: http://tinyurl.com/CowrieVideo
An excellent article in ANA's "Numismatist" magazine, Oct 2017 > http://onlinedigitalpublishing.com/publication/?i=440085&ver=html5&p=40
SEE how far back in time decorative sea shells were important to prehistoric man at his : https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/05/090505163021.htm
Interested in Primitive Money? Then check out this YouTube video created by Kagins Auctions featuring Bob Leonard and Charles Opitz upon the massive sale in March 2021. Click this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9MIKxfbAaZg
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