How Rich Was Smaug? - LOTR
Summary
This episode calculates Smaug's net worth by analyzing the composition and volume of his hoard in The Hobbit, estimating its value in the tens of billions of dollars. However, the discussion argues that Smaug is not the wealthiest being in Middle-earth because he lacks significant quantities of mithril. The host concludes that Sauron is far richer, as he hoards nearly all the remaining mithril from Khazad-dûm, a substance worth ten times more than gold.
Topics discussed
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Introduction to InDeepGeek and the topic
Describing Smaug's hoard from The Hobbit
Components of the treasure and Erebor's wealth
Caveats on valuing Middle-earth gold
Previous estimates of Smaug's net worth
Adjusting estimates for inflation and scale
The superior value of Mithril
The dispersal of Mithril after Khazad-dum
Valuing Bilbo's Mithril shirt
Sauron's hoard of Mithril and other riches
Conclusion: Smaug vs Sauron wealth
Outro and call to action
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