<!-- generated: provider=openrouter model=arcee-ai/trinity-large-preview:free date=2026-02-19 source=book-1-chapter-04 -->

# Tale

## Definition

The counting or reckoning of coins by number rather than by weighing, made possible by official stamps that certify the weight and fineness of each coin, eliminating the need for individual verification.

## Source Chapter

Book I, Chapter 4

## Context

Smith explains how coined money enables exchange by tale, contrasting it with earlier systems where metals had to be weighed for each transaction, thus greatly facilitating commercial activity through standardization.

## Economic Domain

Exchange

---
