Show pageOld revisionsBacklinksBack to top This page is read only. You can view the source, but not change it. Ask your administrator if you think this is wrong. ======Galleons====== =====Object Information===== * **Type:** [[Wizarding Currency]] * **Users:** [[Witches]] and [[Wizards]] in [[Great Britain]] and likely other wizarding communities. * **Maker:** Minted and regulated by the [[Goblins]] of [[Gringotts Wizarding Bank]]. =====Description and Appearance===== A [[Galleon]] is the largest and most valuable denomination of [[wizarding currency]] used in [[Great Britain]]. They are thick, circular coins made of solid gold. According to [[Bill Weasley]], every [[Galleon]] is stamped with a unique serial number around its edge, which identifies the specific [[Goblin]] who minted it. While the books do not describe any imagery on the faces of the coins, they are noted for their high value and are the standard for significant purchases and wealth measurement in the wizarding world. Vanishing or magically duplicated coins, such as [[Leprechaun Gold]], are considered counterfeit and worthless as they disappear after a short time. =====Magical Properties and Usage===== As the primary unit of currency, [[Galleon]]s are used for all major transactions, from purchasing [[school supplies]] in [[Diagon Alley]] to rewarding achievements and posting bounties. The established exchange rate is as follows: * 1 [[Galleon]] = 17 silver [[Sickles]] * 1 [[Galleon]] = 493 bronze [[Knuts]] While standard [[Galleon]]s possess no inherent magical properties beyond their Goblin-made nature, they can be magically altered. [[Hermione Granger]] demonstrated this by bewitching a batch of fake [[Galleon]]s with a [[Protean Charm]] for the members of [[Dumbledore's Army]]. These coins served as a secret communication device; when [[Harry Potter]] altered the date on his coin, the other coins would grow hot and the numbers on their rims would change to match, alerting the members to the next meeting time. This enchantment was sophisticated enough that [[Draco Malfoy]] was unable to replicate it, instead resorting to a cruder attempt with his own coin and a partner. =====History===== [[Galleon]]s have been the standard of wizarding wealth for centuries, managed exclusively by the [[Goblins]] at [[Gringotts]]. The coins are stored in high-security vaults deep beneath the bank, such as the [[Potter]] family vault, from which [[Harry Potter]] made his first withdrawal in 1991, and the even more secure [[Lestrange]] vault. Throughout the series, [[Galleon]]s are central to several key events: * The [[Weasley]] family won a grand prize of 700 [[Galleon]]s in the //[[Daily Prophet]]// Galleon Draw, which they used to visit [[Bill Weasley]] in [[Egypt]]. * [[Harry Potter]] gave his [[Triwizard Tournament]] winnings of 1,000 [[Galleon]]s to [[Fred Weasley|Fred]] and [[George Weasley]], providing the capital they needed to start their joke shop, [[Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes]]. * During the [[Second Wizarding War]], the [[Ministry of Magic]], under the control of [[Lord Voldemort]], placed a 10,000 [[Galleon]] bounty on [[Harry Potter]]'s head for his capture, dead or alive. =====Role in the Story===== [[Galleon]]s function as a powerful symbol of status, opportunity, and motivation within the wizarding world. The stark contrast between the vast fortune [[Harry Potter]] inherited and the modest financial state of the [[Weasley]] family is a recurring theme that explores class differences and the nature of wealth. Furthermore, [[Galleon]]s act as a significant plot device. Harry's financial independence allows him to operate outside the Dursleys' control and generously support his friends. The 1,000 [[Galleon]]s from the [[Triwizard Tournament]] are directly responsible for the creation of [[Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes]], whose products later play crucial roles in defying Dolores Umbridge and fighting [[Death Eaters]]. The fake [[Galleon]]s used by [[Dumbledore's Army]] become a vital and secure method of communication, highlighting [[Hermione Granger]]'s exceptional magical talent. Finally, the bounty placed on Harry drives the tension in the final book, forcing the trio into hiding and leading to their eventual capture by [[Snatchers]]. =====Behind the Scenes===== * **Etymology:** The name "Galleon" is likely derived from the large, multi-decked sailing ships of the same name used by European states from the 16th to 18th centuries. These ships were famously used to transport treasure, making the name fitting for a gold coin. * **Real-World Value:** In a 2001 interview for Comic Relief, [[J.K. Rowling]] stated that she estimated the value of one [[Galleon]] to be "about five British pounds" (£5 GBP). * **Film Appearance:** In the film adaptations of the series, [[Galleon]]s are depicted with various designs, often featuring the logo of [[Gringotts Wizarding Bank]] or the image of a [[dragon]]. (film)
