Copper sheathing reduced hull fouling and maintenance while preserving the speed needed to overhaul blockade runners. Speed mattered because captured merchantmen and their cargoes could fetch valuable prices in Britain. The cargo helped the British economy, and the vessel could be sold into commercial use. Prize proceeds rewarded captains and crews while returning money to the naval system. The same income helped the Admiralty finance construction and facilities during the Napoleonic Wars.
Notable Point · 17:09-19:57
Coppering, prize money, and blockade finance
Coppered hulls helped Royal Navy ships catch valuable blockade runners, while captured ships and cargoes fed prize incentives and Admiralty finances.