Symbolizing great concentrations of wealth and prestige, coppers, or tlakwa, are publicly displayed on ceremonial occasions. Among the Kwakwaka’wakw, these copper plaques are cut or broken and the pieces are distributed to rivals as a means of intimidation through a show of wealth. Visual evidence indicates that this copper had been broken into multiple sections, then pieced back together with rivets along the ridge. The painted killer whale crest design reflects a more recent addition, perhaps applied over an earlier rendering. Coppers are esteemed items, and their ceremonial transfer remains part of dowry negotiations for the Kwakawa’wakw.

A horn ladle with an oval bowl secured to the handle by copper [or brass] rivets. The handle is carved with human and animal motifs: a frog, a human head with protruding tongue, and two birds' heads with animal ears. The pupils of the eyes of all figures are inlaid with metal.