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# Coin Degradation Measurement

## Definition

The quantitative assessment of how much coins fall below their standard weight due to wear, clipping, or other factors. Smith provides specific figures for English coin degradation before the recoinage, noting that gold was more than two percent and silver more than eight percent below standard weight.

## Source Chapter

Book IV, Chapter 6

## Context

Smith uses specific measurements of coin degradation to illustrate the extent of monetary instability in pre-reformation England. These figures support his argument for the necessity of recoinage and proper monetary policy.

## Economic Domain

Regulation

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