small shells employed in Africa and the East Indies as a substitute for money. The principal of this sort is Cypraea moneta, a native of the Maldivé Isles, whence they are exported to Bengal, &c., for the purposes of commerce. The best are white, shining, from \( \frac{3}{4} \) to 1 inch in length, with a distinct transverse ridge. A century ago their value in Bengal was 2500 for a rupee; but now they are sold at 3200 for the same coin.