Tin and tin goods

The abundance of tin in the mountains and valleys around the Kingdom of Bannar fuels a thriving export trade of not just ore, but refined ingots and other tin goods. Tinsmithing in Bannar is highly profitable due to the availability and cheapness of local tin. Besides household implements, many apprentice jewelry makers start by practicing with cheap tin instead of silver. This has led to a surplus of somewhat avant-garde crafts, some of which make it to eccentric collectors. In addition to the tin, several minerals and gemstones naturally occur with tin ores. Besides the tin, tourmaline and topaz are found frequently enough to give apprentice gem cutters time to refine their skills before tackling more expensive gems. While not necessarily valuable, such jewelry created by a collaboration between apprentices still produces enough income for them to live and continue training. These tin goods are plentiful enough that they have replaced others. Taverns in Bannar are far more likely to serve drinks in tinplate tankards rather than leathern jacks. Tinplate canteens are more reliable than wineskins as long as it isn’t winter when the contents may freeze. Tin lanterns stay bright longer and punched windscreens don’t break like expensive glass. Tin kettles are a favorite among travelers. They are a fraction of the weight of traditional iron pots and far less burdensome. Some adventurers will make the long trek to Bannar just to save money by buying their gear directly from the makers instead of paying importers. Of course, while they are in Bannar, and if they can stomach the dictatorial king long enough, there are jobs along the frontier protecting miners and caravans. In the northern forests, there has been trouble with some ambitious goblinoid tribes and there’s always a need for armed escorts. Even though the King’s Coin is worthless outside Bannar, anyone savvy enough can turn their pay into trade goods before they depart Bannar. With a little foresight and some luck, they could earn triple or better in sales.

Type

Metal