How did nations measure their wealth under mercantilism?

Under mercantilism, nations measured their wealth primarily by the amount of precious metals, such as gold and silver, they possessed. This system emphasized a favorable balance of trade, where exports exceeded imports, allowing countries to accumulate more bullion. Additionally, countries sought to establish colonies and monopolize resources to enhance their economic power and secure self-sufficiency. Overall, the wealth of a nation was viewed as directly linked to its stock of tangible resources and trade surpluses.