Pueblo Necklace with Wolf Naja and Old Coins [SOLD]

There are three aspects of this necklace that each alone would make it unique. The first is the naja. In the center of the naja is a wolf or coyote head with what appears to be a bolt of lightning on its forehead. It is uncertain what the wolf/coyote stands for, perhaps it could be a clan symbol. The second aspect that puts this necklace apart from others is the perfectly formed handmade beads. There are 40 beads, each one expertly shaped. The last thing about this necklace that stands out is the use of eight liberty head nickels dating from 1902 to 1910. These coins have been worn in a way that indicates that most of the wear came after they were placed on the necklace. Add to this mix eight antique red trade beads and you have a rare, one of a kind piece.

The silver beads would tend to date the necklace to the early 1900s. The glass beads would fall in the same time period or perhaps to the late 1800s. Overall, the necklace is extraordinary. It previously was the property of a resident of Jemez Pueblo.