Potter family wealth (WAS Re: A journey "into...)

[zgirnius]

No: HPFGUIDX 161628

Becca:
> I've also always wondered if James and Lily were actually rich, or 
if 
> they just seem that way to Harry.  After all, most working adults 
> have lots and lots of money in the eyes of children.  When you are 
> 11, $50 is a lot of money.  When you are 30 and married, it's 
> probably only a very modest percentage of your monthly income.  
(And, 
> one would think that wizards would have more discretionary income 
> than the rest of us, given their ability to transfigure things that 
> they need.)  I don't think that there is enough evidence from adult 
> wizards regarding the size of Harry's bank account to say whether 
it 
> is actually huge, or if it is just a lot more money than the 
average 
> child has.  Could go either way.

zgirnius:
Actually, we do know that the Potters were wealthy (though, it could 
have been 'new' money, money is money!) It came up in an interview 
(http://www.accio-quote.org/articles/2000/1000-aol-chat.htm)

> America Online chat transcript, AOL.com, 19 October 2000:
> Q: What did James and Lily Potter do when they were alive? 

> A: Well, I can't go into too much detail, because you're going to 
> find out in future books. But James inherited plenty of money, so 
> he didn't need a well-paid profession. You'll find out more about 
> both Harry's parents later. 

zgirnius:
Also, James' ownership of an invisibility cloak as a kid is an 
indication of his family's wealth. They are supposed to be very rare.