Legal Definitions - prest money

Prest money refers to a historical payment made to an individual at the time they formally enlisted in military service, typically as a soldier or sailor. This initial sum acted as an advance or a signing bonus, solidifying their commitment to serve.

• Example 1: In 17th-century England, a young man named Thomas, seeking employment and adventure, decides to join a regiment of the King's army. After he takes his oath of allegiance and signs the enlistment papers, the recruiting officer hands him a small sum of money, perhaps a few shillings, as an immediate incentive.

  Explanation: The payment Thomas receives at the exact moment he commits to joining the army, before he even begins his training or active duty, is an example of prest money. It was a common practice to provide this upfront payment to secure new recruits.

• Example 2: During the 18th century, a British naval captain, needing to fill his ship's crew for an upcoming voyage, sends out a press gang to recruit sailors. While many were forcibly conscripted, some experienced seamen were offered a small cash payment upon agreeing to sign the ship's articles and commit to the journey.

  Explanation: The cash given to a sailor who voluntarily agreed to join the ship's crew, at the point of their enlistment, constitutes prest money. This payment served as an immediate financial inducement to secure their service for the duration of the voyage.