The “Master of Coin” is a significant figure in the fictional world of George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” book series and its HBO television adaptations, “Game of Thrones” and “House of the Dragon”.
The Master of Coin is the chief financial advisor to the monarch and a member of the Small Council, the ruling body that assists the monarch of the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros. This role involves managing the royal treasury, overseeing taxation and revenue collection, borrowing money, and directing various financial officials. The primary role is to secure funds, while the monarch and the Hand are responsible for spending them.
Several characters have held this influential position throughout Westeros’s history, including:
- Petyr “Littlefinger” Baelish, who served under King Robert Baratheon and King Joffrey I Baratheon.
- Tyrion Lannister, who briefly held the office during King Joffrey’s reign and managed the crown’s debt.
- Lyman Beesbury, who served King Viserys I Targaryen.
- Bartimos Celtigar, who served Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen during the Dance of the Dragons.
In the books, Queen Regent Cersei Lannister eventually renamed the office “Lord Treasurer”, a title held by Ser Harys Swyft.
The term “Master of Coin” is also used in games and other fictional works. Additionally, Tesla’s Chief Financial Officer, Zach Kirkhorn, was referred to as “Master of Coin”.
What does a Master of Coin do?
From my experience, The Master of Coin is in charge of the royal treasury, advises the monarch on financial matters, and is responsible for raising money to meet the Crown’s needs.
Who is the Master of Coin in Game of Thrones?
Petyr Baelish served as Master of Coin at the start of the series, and was replaced by Tyrion Lannister under the rule of King Jofferey Baratheon.
Why was Littlefinger Master of Coin?
Great question! Seeing Littlefinger’s financial acumen, Jon was easily convinced by Lysa to later bring Littlefinger to the royal court at King’s Landing, and make him Master of Coin on King Robert Baratheon’s Small Council. Petyr’s blatant ambition often placed him at odds with the Master of Whisperers, Varys.
Who is Tesla’s Master of Coin?
Tesla’s Chief Financial Officer, Zach Kirkhorn, who also held the title Master of Coin, speaks during Tesla’s 2023 Investor Day on March 1. Taneja started as vice president of accounting operations at Solar City, a solar energy company controlled by Elon Musk, in 2016, the same year it was acquired by Tesla.