Piloncitos are small, bead-like artifacts made of gold or silver that were used as a

form of currency in pre-colonial Philippines. These ancient coins date back to the 9th to
12th centuries and have been found in various archaeological sites across the country.

Piloncitos are typically small and range from 2 to 20 millimeters in diameter. They
are usually circular or oval-shaped, and some may have slight variations in design and
form.

Piloncitos were crafted from gold or silver, and their weight determined their value.
They were used as a medium of exchange and played a crucial role in trade and
commerce during the pre-colonial era.

The use of piloncitos reflects the advanced economic and trading practices of pre-
colonial Philippine societies.These artifacts provide valuable insights into the ancient
Filipinos' sophisticated metalworking skills, their understanding of currency systems, and
the importance of trade and commerce in their daily lives.

Piloncitos have been found in burials archaeological sites, excavations, and

treasure hoards. They serve as tangible evidence oft Philippines' rich cultural heritages
its connection to the broader trade network in Southeast Asia during that time.