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JOURNAL, R.A.S. ( CEYLON). [VOL. XIX. 



this would be a very large variation. But in no single speci- 

 men are there any signs of wear. In every case the edges 

 and corners are clean cut and even sharp, a property which 

 would be most awkward in use, and which would be speedily 

 destroyed by actual wear. From the weights given it will be 

 observed that the great variation is not caused by single very 

 high or very low specimens, but represents an even gradation. 



Further, it must be remarked that the plaques are more 

 alike in size than in weight, and that certainly no division 

 into various recognizable sizes can be observed. 



So, judged on their suitability for use, these plaques show 

 none of the characteristics of money, and would be more ill- 

 adapted to that purpose than are the South Sea Islanders' 

 strings of perforated shell discs. 



But the subject is not exhausted by an analysis of their 

 practical value. Let us consider the arguments of Mr. Parker, 

 the original discoverer, and an ardent advocate of the " money " 

 theory. 



At risk of being prolix, I shall quote Mr. Parker's arguments* 

 at some length : — 



Mr. Parker. The other side. 



They have in some cases been Various small objects have 

 found buried with coins, and been found buried with coins, 

 were therefore considered coins Silver and copper rings, for in- 

 by the man who buried them. stance, and small ingots, which 



may be weights. I cannot see 

 that the association of coins with 

 other objects is any argument 

 in favour of such objects being 

 money. 



It is even an argument in the 

 other direction ; for where coins 

 of known form existed, it is un- 

 likely that these most inconve- 

 nient plaques would have been 

 used as money. 



One of the Mullaittivu plaques 

 has three beads adhering to it. 



* Taken from letters held by Mr. H. C. P. Bell. 



