Magic Item Cost Form
Use this planner for Pathfinder-style pricing estimates. Final approval should stay with the Game Master.
Example Data Table
These examples show common inputs and estimated results.
| Item | Type | Main Inputs | Estimated Price | Craft Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cloak of Resistance +2 | Resistance Bonus | Bonus 2, standard slot | 4,000.00 gp | 2,000.00 gp |
| Headband of Intellect +4 | Ability Enhancement | Bonus 4, standard slot | 16,000.00 gp | 8,000.00 gp |
| Ring of Protection +3 | Deflection AC | Bonus 3, standard slot | 18,000.00 gp | 9,000.00 gp |
| Custom Command Wand | Spell Effect | Spell 2, CL 3, command word | 10,800.00 gp | 5,400.00 gp |
Formula Used
The calculator applies common Pathfinder-style item pricing patterns. It separates base magic cost, body slot changes, extra powers, mundane item value, material value, and market adjustment.
- Weapon: bonus² × 2,000 gp.
- Armor or shield: bonus² × 1,000 gp.
- Ability bonus: bonus² × 1,000 gp.
- Deflection or natural armor: bonus² × 2,000 gp.
- Resistance: bonus² × 1,000 gp.
- Skill competence: bonus² × 100 gp.
- Spell effect: spell level × caster level × activation value.
Crafting cost is shown as half the final market price. Crafting time is estimated at one day per 1,000 gp, with a one-day minimum.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter a clear item name for your notes.
- Select the closest item type.
- Add the enhancement bonus or spell data.
- Choose activation, duration, slot, and charge limits.
- Add extra ability, item, or material costs.
- Apply a market adjustment when your table needs one.
- Press the calculate button.
- Download the result as CSV or PDF.
Advanced Pathfinder Magic Item Pricing Guide
Why Price Estimates Matter
Magic item pricing shapes treasure balance. It also affects crafting choices. A small price error can change party wealth. This calculator gives a clear estimate before a player spends gold. It is not a replacement for table judgment. It is a fast planning tool for players and Game Masters.
Core Cost Logic
Most permanent items use a squared bonus formula. That keeps higher bonuses expensive. Spell items use spell level, caster level, and activation method. A command word item costs less than a continuous effect. A limited daily item costs less than unlimited use. These changes help compare item concepts fairly.
Slots and Extra Powers
Body slots matter. A slotted item has a normal cost. A slotless item is more flexible, so it usually costs more. Wrong-slot items also need caution. Extra powers can raise cost again. Similar powers may stack simply. Different powers often need a higher secondary cost.
Crafting Planning
The crafting estimate shows half market price as the gold cost. It also shows a rough crafting time. This helps a player decide whether crafting is worth the downtime. The suggested DC rises with caster level. Missing prerequisites increase risk and should be discussed first.
Using Results at the Table
Use the result as a starting number. Then compare the item with existing gear. Ask whether the effect gives constant defense, strong action economy, or unusual utility. Those features can make an item stronger than its formula suggests. A Game Master may raise, lower, reject, or redesign the final price.
FAQs
1. Is this calculator official?
No. It is a pricing aid for Pathfinder-style games. Your Game Master should approve every custom item before play.
2. Why does the calculator square bonuses?
Squared bonuses make higher bonuses scale quickly. This helps stop large bonuses from becoming too cheap compared with lower bonuses.
3. What does slotless mean?
A slotless item does not occupy a body slot. Because it is more flexible, the calculator applies a higher multiplier.
4. How are spell effect items priced?
Spell effect items use spell level, caster level, and activation method. Duration and daily charges can also modify the price.
5. What are missing prerequisites?
Missing prerequisites represent crafting requirements the creator lacks. The calculator raises the suggested craft DC for each missing requirement.
6. Why is crafting cost half price?
Many Pathfinder crafting estimates use half the market price as the gold cost. This page follows that common planning method.
7. Can I price artifacts with this tool?
Artifacts should not use normal pricing formulas. They are story items and need direct Game Master control.
8. Why include CSV and PDF exports?
Exports make table review easier. You can save calculations, compare item versions, or share proposed prices with your group.