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seigniorage

noun
sei·​gnior·​age | \ ˈsān-yə-rij How to pronounce seigniorage (audio) \
variants: or seignorage

Definition of seigniorage

: a government revenue from the manufacture of coins calculated as the difference between the face value and the metal value of the coins

Examples of seigniorage in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Loyalty points are exposed to the modern form of seigniorage, as well as regular inflation. — Jon Sindreu, WSJ, 26 Mar. 2021 Indeed, there is likely a Laffer curve for seigniorage. — WSJ, 14 Jan. 2020 This right to earn seigniorage, as it is called, is worth a lot, even if their money-printing is constrained by the need to keep inflation in check. — The Economist, 29 Aug. 2019 All interest is diverted to the companies backing Libra’s governing body, while holders of Libra itself earn nothing—giving the founders profits akin to the seigniorage made by central banks. — James Mackintosh, WSJ, 23 June 2019 Shares, which fluctuate in value, entitle the owner to a share of the system's future seigniorage profits. — Timothy B. Lee, Ars Technica, 25 Apr. 2018 Another benefit, supporters say, is that the SNB would earn more seigniorage fees. — Brian Blackstone, WSJ, 3 May 2018 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'seigniorage.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of seigniorage

15th century, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for seigniorage

Middle English seigneurage, from Anglo-French seignurage right of the lord (especially to coin money), from seignur

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The first known use of seigniorage was in the 15th century

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Dictionary Entries Near seigniorage

seignior

seigniorage

seigniory

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Cite this Entry

“Seigniorage.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/seigniorage. Accessed 12 Jul. 2022.

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More from Merriam-Webster on seigniorage

Nglish: Translation of seigniorage for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about seigniorage

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