Coin & Roads: Trade in Fantasy Worlds
Are you grappling with the intricacies of trade in fantasy worlds? Fear not! It can be difficult to figure out the complexities and create a compelling and realistic system, so here is our brief guide to trade and commerce in worldbuilding.
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Deciphering Economic Systems
In the realm of commerce and trade, understanding the economic systems that govern your world is pivotal. There are three historical models to choose from:
Tradition
Tradition, a system deeply rooted in customs and teachings, dictates who produces what services or goods and who gets the first serve. Public opinion, elders, or superstitions guide decisions, fostering a sense of continuity and cultural significance.
Command
Centralized decision-making prevails in the command system, where a singular entity such as a monarch or military force orchestrates all decisions. This top-down structure ensures uniformity but might lead to challenges in adapting to dynamic market conditions.
Market
The prevalent market system operates on the principles of supply and demand. Individuals make decisions on production and distribution based on market forces. It reflects a more dynamic and responsive approach, with flexibility in adapting to changing economic landscapes.
The Scale of Trade
Consider the scale of trade in your fictional society. In a medieval setting, trade is considerably limited, with around 80% of the population engaged in farming or food-and-drink production. A renaissance society sees a slightly more networked structure.
- 80%: Farmers or food-and-drink producers.
- 10%: Traders or specialized services.
- 5%: Lower nobility.
- 5%: Rulers, administrators, and clergy.
For every 100 people, a local trader emerges. Scale up to every 1000, and a market comes into play. Beyond that, for every 10,000, a market for exotic goods takes center stage. Common goods include food, drink, cloth, wood, and salt.
Expanding on this scale, envision the bustling life of a market. Stalls adorned with colorful fabrics, the scent of spices wafting through the air, and traders engaging in lively banter. In a world rich with diversity, the market becomes a melting pot of cultures, fostering connections and sparking new ideas.
The Medium of Exchange
While coins have existed for millennia in our world, their everyday use might be limited in your fantasy world. Bartering and goods trade are more commonplace, offering ease of exchange without relying on government intervention or coinage.
Intriguingly, smaller value coins may not be practical for everyday transactions. Consider the historical example of early colonial Australia, where local blacksmiths forged their own coins due to a lack of centralized infrastructure.
In your fantasy world, explore the various forms of exchange. Perhaps intricate tokens representing specific goods, or magical sigils imbued with trade value. The very essence of your world can influence how trade occurs. A land rich in mystical properties may find items infused with magical energy becoming a form of currency.
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Thanks for tuning in! While I've covered the big questions, the world of trade is vast. If you have unique approaches not covered here, share them in the comments below. Save this post for reference, and check back in for more insightful worldbuilding tips and posts.