Legal Definitions - King's silver

Definition: King's silver is a historical term used to describe money paid in the Court of Common Pleas for a license to levy a feudal fine. It is also the amount due on granting a congé d'accorder in levying a fine of lands. The payment amounted to three-twentieths of the supposed annual value of the land, or ten shillings for every five marks of land. It is also known as post-fine.

Example: If a person wanted to sell their land, they would have to pay the King's silver to the Court of Common Pleas for a license to do so. The amount they would have to pay would be three-twentieths of the supposed annual value of the land or ten shillings for every five marks of land.

Explanation: The example illustrates how King's silver was used as a fee for obtaining a license to sell land. The payment was based on the supposed annual value of the land, and the amount due was significant, making it a significant financial burden for those who wanted to sell their land.