Merk (coin)
The merk was a Scottish silver coin. Originally the same word as a money mark of silver, the merk was in circulation at the end of the 16th century and in the 17th century. It was originally valued at 13shilling 4penny, later raised to 14s. Scots.
In addition to the merks, coins issued included; the four merk worth 56s or £2-16; the half-merk, 6s-8d or 80d; the quarter-merk, 3s-4d or 40d; the eighth thistle merk, worth 20d.
The first issue weighed and was 50% silver and 50% base metals, thus it contained of silver.
"Markland" or "Merkland" was used to describe an amount of land in Scottish deeds and legal papers. It was based upon a common valuation of the land.
