Pines

Melesian coins struck with a pinecone motif.

Pines are the currency used in the country of Meles and come in three weights; copper, silver and gold.
On the top side of the coin is a portrait of the previously reigning monarch to serve as remembrance for their prosperity. Spending coin is akin to cherishing the old monarch, and giving to charity or those in need is considered to be like giving a king's blessing. This side is known as heads .
As the next monarch dies, their predecessor's coins become more valuable when they are no longer produced. Eventually they are passed between so many hands that they gradually fade from the world; many people have a hobby of collecting a set of three coins from each reigning monarch of the past. If a monarch has not ruled for very long, there will be fewer coins with their portrait. Coins of the past keep their face value, but collectors may be willing to pay extra for them.
The bottom side of the coin is stamped with a pinecone motif, representing the climate and landscape of the Isles of Meles and the large Melesian Pine forests that grow all over the island. Pinecones are also a symbol of prosperity and resilliance. This side is known as pines .

Currency

by TJ Trewin

Exchange

10 copper pines make 1 silver pine
50 silver pines equal 1 gold pine

Nobles often pay 1 gold in the form of 500 coppers when they lose a wager so that the victor has to painstakingly count out every coin and has a cumbersome weight to carry.

Copper pines are the smallest and lightest of the coins, weighing only 7 grams. Silver pines are slightly larger and heavier, weighing 10 grams. The gold pines are much bigger and weigh 25 grams. Due to their size and worth, gold pines are a rare sight and only rich merchants and nobles can afford to carry this coin.
Copper pines are often kept in pockets but most people keep all of their coins secure in a leather pinepouch tied to their belt.

Banking

Wealthy individuals residing in North Meles may open an account with the Royal Bank of Capstone and store their pines in secure vaults. Most commoners still keep their pines safe at home in hidden stashes. Others spend it as soon as they are paid.
The bank can provide loans to reputable traders, trusted guild members and loyal nobles to assist with setting up new businesses and financing the construction of new buildings or factories.

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by TJ Trewin

Coin Weight
1 copper - 7g
1 silver - 10g
1 gold - 25g

Slang Pines can be referred to as:

• Pines
• Pine coins
• Coins
• Cones
• Coppers / Silvers

However, they are never referred to as:

• Golds
• Pine Cones
• Other common currency names such as pennies

Heads or pines?

— betting phrase

Item type

Currency & Deeds