The Other Worlds Books Depend on the Bean Counter
I’ve always been fascinated by the role of money in fantasy worlds. How do people buy and sell goods? What are the different currencies? How does the economy work? In many fantasy books, these questions are never really answered. The author simply waves a hand and says, “Oh, they have gold coins.” But I think it’s important to give these things some thought. After all, money is a major part of our lives. It affects everything from the way we live to the way we think about the world. So it stands to reason that it would have a major impact on the world of fantasy as well.
In this article, I’m going to take a look at the different ways that money is used in fantasy worlds. I’ll explore the different currencies, the different ways that people buy and sell goods, and the different economic systems that exist. I’ll also discuss the latest trends in fantasy economics and offer some tips for writers who want to create their own unique and believable financial systems.
Types of Currencies in Fantasy Worlds
The most common type of currency in fantasy worlds is gold coins. Gold is a valuable metal that is easy to store and transport, and it has been used as currency for centuries. However, gold is not the only type of currency that exists in fantasy worlds. Other types of currency include silver coins, copper coins, paper money, and even magical items.
The type of currency that is used in a particular fantasy world will depend on a number of factors, including the level of technology, the economic system, and the culture. For example, in a world with a medieval setting, gold coins are likely to be the most common type of currency. However, in a world with a more advanced economy, paper money or even electronic currency may be more common.
Ways to Buy and Sell Goods in Fantasy Worlds
In most fantasy worlds, people buy and sell goods in markets. Markets are places where people can come together to trade goods and services. Markets can be small or large, and they can be located in towns, cities, or even villages.
In addition to markets, people can also buy and sell goods in shops. Shops are usually owned by individual merchants, and they sell a variety of goods, including food, clothing, weapons, and armor. Shops can be found in towns, cities, and even villages.
Economic Systems in Fantasy Worlds
The economic system of a fantasy world will determine how goods and services are produced, distributed, and consumed. There are many different types of economic systems, but the most common types in fantasy worlds are feudalism, mercantilism, and capitalism.
Feudalism is a system in which land is owned by a few powerful lords, and peasants work the land in exchange for protection, as well as goods and services from the lord. Mercantilism is a system in which the government controls the economy in order to maximize trade and wealth creation. Capitalism is a system in which individuals own the means of production and can therefore profit from it while competing for marketshare and lower prices versus other businesses.
Latest Trends in Fantasy Economics
The latest trends in fantasy economics include the rise of electronic currency and the development of new economic systems. Electronic currency is becoming more and more popular in fantasy worlds, as it is a convenient and secure way to store and transfer funds. New economic systems are also being developed, such as systems that are based on barter or gift economies, rather than the traditional buying and selling of goods and services.
Tips for Creating Unique and Believable Financial Systems
If you’re writing a fantasy novel, it’s important to create a unique and believable financial system. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Consider the level of technology in your world. The type of currency that is used will depend on the level of technology.
- Think about the economic system of your world. The economic system will determine how goods and services are produced, distributed, and consumed.
- Create a variety of currencies. Don’t just limit yourself to gold coins. There are many other types of currency that you can use to flesh out your financial system.
- Make sure your financial system is consistent. The different parts of your financial system should work together to create a believable and cohesive whole.
By following these tips, you can create a unique and believable financial system for your fantasy world.
FAQ
Q: What is the most common type of currency in fantasy worlds?
A: Gold coins.
Q: What are the different ways to buy and sell goods in fantasy worlds?
A: Markets and shops.
Q: What are the different types of economic systems in fantasy worlds?
A: Feudalism, mercantilism, and capitalism.
Q: What are the latest trends in fantasy economics?
A: The rise of electronic currency and the development of new economic systems.
Q: What are some tips for creating unique and believable financial systems?
A: Consider the level of technology, think about the economic system, create a variety of currencies, and make sure your financial system is consistent.
Conclusion
Money is a major part of our lives, and it has a major impact on the world of fantasy as well. By understanding the different types of currencies, the different ways to buy and sell goods, and the different economic systems that exist, you can create a unique and believable financial system for your fantasy world.
Are you interested in learning more about fantasy economics? Let me know in the comments below!
