Leather is one of the most valuable refined materials produced throughout Faerûn. Created by cleaning, curing, and tanning raw animal hides, leather combines strength, flexibility, and durability into a material suitable for armor, clothing, containers, tack, and countless everyday goods. Every thriving settlement depends upon skilled tanners to transform perishable hides into a stable commodity prized by craftsmen and merchants alike.
Leather is used to craft armor, backpacks, belts, boots, pouches, waterskins, saddles, harnesses, whips, quivers, and countless other durable goods. It serves as one of the primary materials used by leatherworkers throughout Faerûn.
| Type | Trade Category | Availability | License Tier | Source Cost | Wholesale Price | Base Price | Premium Price | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leather And Hides | Leather & Hides | Common | 0 | 1 sp, 5 cp | 3 sp | 4 sp | 8 sp | 5 lb |
Production Stage: Refined Material
Item Roles: Production Material, Trade Good
Production Method: Leatherworking
Leather is produced anywhere skilled tanners have access to a reliable supply of raw hides. Although the tanning process requires time and expertise, leather is a common commodity in most settled regions and is widely traded to craftsmen throughout Faerûn.
Export Locations: Amn, Cormyr, The Dalelands
Premium Markets: Waterdeep, Baldur’s Gate, Athkatla
Exotic Markets: Evermeet, Lantan, Halruaa
Exotic Market Notes
Evermeet: Fine leather is imported for specialized goods where livestock production is limited.
Lantan: Skilled artisans value quality leather for precision-crafted equipment and travel gear.
Halruaa: Wealthy craftsmen and merchants import exceptional leather for luxury goods and magical equipment.
Common Buyers: Leatherworkers, armorers, saddlers, outfitters, merchants, adventurers
Common Producers: Tanners, leatherworkers, guild workshops, artisan craftsmen
Profit Potential: Moderate
Finished leather should be stored in a cool, dry environment away from prolonged moisture and excessive heat. Properly maintained leather remains durable for many years with minimal deterioration.
Transport Risks: Low
Storage Difficulty: Easy
Spoilage Risks: Low
Inspection Frequency: Rare
Smuggling Appeal: None
Regulation Level: Low
Leather is one of the most versatile refined materials in Faerûn. Its durability, long shelf life, and broad range of applications make it a dependable commodity for merchants supplying armorers, leatherworkers, outfitters, military quartermasters, and caravan companies throughout the Realms.
| Tier | Description |
|---|---|
0 - Open |
This item may be freely bought, sold, transported, and stored without special permits or registration. Open Trade goods form the foundation of everyday commerce and are rarely subject to inspection beyond normal taxation. |
1 - Registered |
This item is legal to trade but may be subject to routine taxation, record-keeping, or inspection when transported in commercial quantities. Merchants conducting regular business in these goods are often expected to maintain a recognized trade registration. |
2 - Controlled |
This item is considered hazardous, specialized, or otherwise regulated. Merchants may be required to obtain a trade license, maintain records of sale, or submit shipments for inspection. Bulk transport is often monitored by guilds, city authorities, or trade officials. |
3 - Restricted |
This item possesses significant economic, strategic, or industrial value. Trade is limited to approved merchants, guild members, chartered companies, or licensed organizations. Unauthorized possession or transport may result in confiscation, fines, or suspension of trade privileges. |
4 - Chartered |
This item is subject to monopolies, exclusive trade agreements, state control, or powerful guild charters. Production, transport, and sale are closely regulated. Access is typically restricted to organizations operating under special contracts, noble grants, or government authorization. |
5 - Prohibited |
This item is illegal to produce, possess, transport, or sell within most jurisdictions. Exceptions are rare and generally require direct authorization from ruling authorities. Violations often carry severe penalties, including imprisonment, asset seizure, exile, or execution. |