Currency plays a crucial role in shaping the economy and influencing player interactions within the game world. Typically, the currency system is based on a tiered format with various forms of coins that players can earn, spend, and exchange throughout their adventures.

Types of Currency: The most common forms of currency are gold, silver, and copper coins. Each type holds a different value, with gold being the most valuable, followed by silver, and then copper. This tiered system allows for nuanced financial transactions, from purchasing simple provisions to acquiring lavish gear or magical items. Additionally, gemstones serve as another form of high-value currency, often used in large transactions or as compact wealth storage. Gemstones vary widely in value depending on their type, size, and rarity, making them both a currency and a potential investment. They are particularly favored for transactions that require carrying large amounts of wealth discreetly or for trading in high-stakes environments where the intrinsic value of gemstones can be more stable than that of coins.

Exchange Rates: The exchange rates between these types of coins are standardized to simplify trading and monetary transactions within the game. For instance, one gold coin might be worth ten silver coins, and one silver coin could be equivalent to ten copper coins. This system ensures that players can easily convert their treasures based on their needs and the scenario at hand.

With one gold piece, a character can buy a bedroll, 50 feet of good rope, or a goat. A skilled (but not exceptional) artisan can earn one gold piece a day. The gold piece is the standard unit of measure for wealth, even if the coin itself is not commonly used. When merchants discuss deals that involve goods or services worth hundreds or thousands of gold pieces, the transactions don’t usually involve the exchange of individual coins. Rather, the gold piece is a standard measure of value, and the actual exchange is in gold bars, letters of credit, or valuable goods.

One gold piece is worth ten silver pieces, the most prevalent coin among commoners. A silver piece buys a laborer’s work for half a day, a flask of lamp oil, or a night’s rest in a poor inn.

One silver piece is worth ten copper pieces, which are common among laborers and beggars. A single copper piece buys a candle, a torch, or a piece of chalk.

In addition, unusual coins made of other precious metals sometimes appear in treasure hoards. The electrum piece (ep) and the platinum piece (pp) originate from fallen empires and lost kingdoms, and they sometimes arouse suspicion and skepticism when used in transactions. An electrum piece is worth five silver pieces, and a platinum piece is worth ten gold pieces.

A standard coin weighs about a third of an ounce, so fifty coins weigh a pound.

Usage of Currency: Players use currency for a variety of purposes:

• Purchasing Equipment and Supplies: Players can buy weapons, armor, potions, and other essential gear necessary for their journeys.
• Services: Currency is used to pay for services like healing at temples, gaining information from NPCs, or securing transportation.
• Influence and Bribery: Players might need to bribe guards, persuade someone for information, or donate to an organization for favor or influence.
• Investments: In more complex scenarios, players can invest in properties, businesses, or guilds, which can provide ongoing benefits or income.

Economic Impact: The presence of currency adds a layer of realism and complexity to the game, influencing both the individual strategies of players and the broader game world's socioeconomic dynamics. It allows for a tangible measure of wealth and resource management, which can be critical to the success of player missions and campaigns.

Currency Exchange Rates

Gemstone Exchange Rates