Legal Definitions - antiqua custuma

Antiqua custuma refers to a historical system of taxes levied in medieval England on the export of specific valuable commodities: wool, woolfells (sheepskins with the wool still attached), and leather. These were known as the "ancient customs" because they were among the earliest and most established duties imposed by the English crown, particularly during the reign of King Edward I. They served as a crucial and consistent source of revenue for the monarchy, distinguishing them from later, additional taxes on the same goods, which were called "nova custuma" (new customs).

Here are some examples illustrating the application of antiqua custuma:

• Imagine a wealthy English merchant in the late 13th century, preparing a large shipment of raw wool from his estates to be sold to weavers in Flanders. Before his ships could leave port, he would be required to pay the antiqua custuma to the King's customs officials. This specific tax on wool was a well-known and long-standing duty, representing the crown's share of the lucrative wool trade.

  This example demonstrates how the antiqua custuma was a direct tax on the export of wool, a primary commodity, paid by merchants engaged in international trade.

• Consider the royal treasury of King Edward I. When his financial administrators compiled reports on the kingdom's income, a significant and reliable portion of the funds would be attributed to the collection of antiqua custuma. This steady stream of revenue, derived from the export of wool, woolfells, and leather, was vital for funding royal projects, maintaining the court, and supporting military endeavors.

  This example illustrates the importance of antiqua custuma as a foundational and predictable source of income for the English monarchy, contributing substantially to the royal coffers.

• Picture a tanner in a medieval English town who has processed a large quantity of animal hides into high-quality finished leather. He intends to export this valuable leather to markets in France or Germany. Upon presenting his goods at the port for shipment, he would be obligated to pay the antiqua custuma on the leather. This tax was part of the original set of duties established by the crown to ensure it profited from the export of key national resources.

  This example highlights the application of antiqua custuma to leather exports, showing its broad reach across different valuable commodities and the obligation it placed on exporters.