653 B
653 B
Sterling Mark
Definition
An official stamp or mark that certifies the fineness or quality of silver, similar to modern hallmarks, providing assurance about the metal content without requiring individual testing.
Source Chapter
Book I, Chapter 4
Context
Smith uses the sterling mark as an example of how official stamps can certify quality rather than weight, drawing parallels to how mints certify both aspects of coined money to facilitate trust in commercial transactions.
Economic Domain
Regulation