Minage is a noun that refers to a medieval mining system or tax. It was a term used in the feudal era to describe the process of extracting mineral resources from the ground, particularly in relation to precious metals such as silver and gold.
In this context, minage denoted the rights, privileges, and obligations associated with the operation and administration of mines. It encompassed various aspects of mining, such as exploration, extraction, smelting, and transportation of minerals. Minage also involved the regulation of mining activities and the imposition of taxes or royalties on the mined resources.
Furthermore, minage could also denote the tax itself that was levied on the production or revenue generated from mining activities. This tax was typically collected by the lord or ruler who held jurisdiction over the mining region or by their appointed officials.
The concept of minage played a significant role in medieval economic systems, as mining was a crucial source of wealth and income. It was often regarded as a prestigious and profitable industry, particularly due to the high value and demand for precious metals during that era.
Overall, minage represented both the institution and the financial imposition related to mining operations in the feudal period, constituting an integral part of the economic and social structure of the time.
