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The debasement puzzle: an essay on medieval monetary history.

From: Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis Quarterly Review  |  Date: 9/22/1997  |  Author: Rolnick, Arthur J.; Velde, Francois R.; Weber, Warren E.

Debasement practices in England and France during the medieval ages have followed a similar pattern. First, there is an increase in both revenues and seigniorage rates. Second, both old and new coins were allowed to remain in circulation. Third, debasements were followed by large yet profitable minting volumes. Lastly, the intrinsic content of the coin was given primary importance over the legal tender value.

Sometimes, lest worse befall and to avoid scandal, a community tolerates ...

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