Chapter IV: The Imperial Coinage & Methods of Verification
(Excerpt approved by the Guild of Weighers & Scales, Courvain District)
I. Standard Coins of the Empire
The Empire mints five official coins whose dimensions, weight, and metal purity are consistent across all kingdoms and duchies. While each realm applies its own stampings and devices, the underlying metal standards do not vary. Every merchant, caravan master, and guild factor is expected to know the following values:
1 Platinum = 5 Golds
1 Gold = 2 Electrums
1 Electrum = 5 Silvers
1 Silver = 10 Coppers
1 Copper = Base unit
When in doubt, weigh it—never guess by color alone.
III. Testing a Coin for Authenticity
Merchants must practice these steps until they can perform them swiftly and discreetly.
1. The Weight Test
Use a traveling balance or tipping-scale to ensure the coin meets its standard weight.
- Platinum and gold counterfeits often fail here.
- Copper fakes are usually too light or too thin.
2. The Edge Test
Inspect the edge under good light. Authentic coins have precise edge work:
- Any wavering, flattening, or mismatched reeding may indicate shaving, an imperial offense.
- Smooth-section interruptions on Éclairs should be evenly spaced.
3. The Ring Test
A gentle tap with a Clairet produces a distinct tone:
- Platinumsls: clear, crystalline ring
- Golds: warm chime
- Electrum: bright metallic “zing”
- Silvers: soft silver note
- Coppers: dull clack
Avoid striking too hard; buyers dislike scratched coins.
4. The Bite Test (Not Recommended)
Some insist on biting gold, but guild policy forbids it. Tooth-marks reduce value and anger nobles.
5. The Heat Test (Forensic Only)
A warm blade pressed lightly to the edge reveals plated fakes by scent or discoloration.
This should be used only on suspected counterfeits, as damaging a legitimate coin carries penalties.
IV. Common Frauds & How to Spot Them
1. Shaved Edges
Criminals remove tiny amounts of precious metal.
Warning signs:
- Uneven reeding
- Excessively smooth patches
- Lighter-than-standard weight
2. Plated Coins
Often appears on Clairets and Ruddies, rarely on Éclairs.
Check:
- Edge nicks
- Heat test
- Color inconsistencies around the rim
3. Foreign Underweights
Some realms beyond the Empire mint coins of similar metals but lesser weight.
Such coins may be accepted at reduced valuation unless locally prohibited.
V. Proper Exchange Conduct
- Always weigh Blanc-Royals and Soleils. Even trusted clients expect it.
- Stack coins by type. Mixed piles lead to error and accusation.
- Announce every exchange aloud to witnesses.
- Provide a written count for transactions exceeding 10 Soleils.
- Never dispute a coin in anger. Refer all disagreements to the local Weigher’s Bench.
VI. On Transporting Large Sums
The Handbook recommends the following practices:
- Convert heavy currency into Blanc-Royals before long travel.
- Use sealed mint-bags when crossing borders.
- Record coin weights and counts before departure.
- Do not rely solely on ingots or gems; coins remain the most liquid form of wealth in the Empire.
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