As societies grew more complex around (circa 9000 BCE – 600 BCE), so did the concept of wealth and ownership. The Barter era marks the beginning of organized trade, where individuals exchanged goods and services directly. This period introduced a new dynamic in self-custody, as the exchange of goods required trust and security between trading parties. Barter systems thrived in early civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus Valley. People traded goods like grain, livestock, textiles, and tools. However, without a standardized currency, the value of goods was subjective, leading to potential disputes. Self-custody during this time became more sophisticated, as individuals had to protect their goods not just from nature or other humans but also ensure they were safe during and after transactions.

The Indus Valley Civilization, one of the earliest urban cultures, stands out as a significant example of the barter system and self-custody. Located in present-day India, the Indus Valley Civilization was a highly advanced society with well-planned cities, sophisticated infrastructure, and a robust trading system.

Barter was the primary mode of economic exchange in the Indus Valley. Archaeological evidence suggests that this civilization engaged in extensive trade with neighboring regions, including Mesopotamia, Afghanistan, and the Persian Gulf. The people of the Indus Valley exchanged goods such as cotton textiles, beads, pottery, and metal tools for items they could not produce locally, such as lapis lazuli, tin, and other precious materials.

Self-custody in the Indus Valley was evident in the way goods were stored and traded. Houses were equipped with storage areas, and granaries played a crucial role in safeguarding surplus grain, which was a key trade commodity. These granaries were often large, centralized structures that served the entire community, indicating a mix of both communal and individual custody practices.

The standardization of weights and measures in the Indus Valley is particularly notable. The civilization developed a precise system of weights, which were used to ensure fair trade. These weights were likely kept under strict self-custody, as they were essential tools in the trading process. The standardization of these tools across the civilization suggests a high level of trust in the trade system, underpinned by reliable self-custody practices.

Additionally, seals found in the Indus Valley, often made of steatite, were used to mark goods and certify ownership, acting as an early form of branding and verification. These seals were likely kept under careful custody by traders and merchants, serving as symbols of trust and authenticity in trade transactions.

The limitations of the barter system, as seen in the Indus Valley and other ancient civilizations, highlighted the need for more portable and divisible forms of wealth, eventually leading to the development of money. However, during the barter era, the practice of self-custody was about more than just protecting physical assets. It was about ensuring that one’s livelihood and ability to trade were secure, which often involved intricate social relationships and trust networks.