Let's be real, money talks, even when you're a legendary shinobi or a formidable samurai in the world of Assassin's Creed Shadows. For players controlling Naoe or Yasuke, Mon isn't just shiny currency; it's the lifeblood of progress. Whether it's upgrading that trusty katana, stocking up on essential tools, or greasing a few palms to slip by unnoticed, you're going to need it. The game, however, isn't exactly handing out golden handshakes. To avoid that all-too-familiar feeling of an empty coin pouch, players have to get a little savvy about their income streams. The good news? You don't need to grind yourself into boredom. By 2026, the community has pinpointed a handful of methods that are both effective and won't pull you away from the epic story unfolding in feudal Japan.

5. Completing Side Quests & Objective Boards

Think of side quests as your neighborhood odd jobs, but with a lot more swordplay. While not every side mission showers you with Mon, a select few are absolute goldmines. The key is to keep an eye on the objective boards, particularly two standout contracts: "The Betrayers" and "The Corrupt Daikan."

"The Betrayers" board is essentially a hit list—a classic for any aspiring assassin. Each target comes with a tidy sum attached. For instance, taking down Endo Tomoyasu nets a cool 360 Mon, while Usami Yoshiko is worth 275 Mon. It's straightforward, rewarding work. On the other hand, "The Corrupt Daikan" board tasks you with cleaning up local corruption. Missions like "The Soiled Merchant" (275 Mon) and "The Sword Hunter" (a hefty 300 Mon) prove that doing the right thing can also pad your wallet nicely. These aren't just chores; they're woven into the world's fabric, offering both narrative flavor and financial gain without feeling like a slog.

4. Taking on Steady Contracts

Alright, so maybe you're not in the mood for a full-blown castle infiltration or a dramatic roadside duel. No sweat! That's where Contracts come in. Found on job boards within Kakurega safehouses (those cozy hidden hubs you unlock), contracts are the perfect side hustle. Each in-game season, you can pick up to three, making it a regular source of income.

While many contracts reward XP and resources, you'll want to scan for those that pay out directly in Mon. The objectives are usually quick and varied: steal supplies, eliminate a specific target, clear an enemy camp, or destroy some cargo. They're designed to be completed without extensive preparation, fitting neatly into your journey between major story beats. It's a reliable, low-commitment way to ensure your funds never hit zero.

3. Raiding Castles for Hidden Wealth

If you're feeling bold and have a penchant for treasure hunting, the castles scattered across regions like Izumi Settsu, Harima, and Yamashiro are calling your name. These aren't just scenic landmarks; they're veritable banks waiting to be... liberally interpreted. Inside, you'll find chests brimming with valuables, locked rooms hiding secrets (and coin), and guards who just happen to be carrying your next gear upgrade or a pouch of Mon.

High-ranking enemies, like the Samurai Daisho, are particularly lucrative targets. A thorough sweep of a castle can yield a significant haul. And here's the best part: once an in-game season changes, these locations reset. That's right—you can literally go back for seconds! It's a method that rewards exploration and careful, methodical play.

2. Confronting Wandering Ronin

Sometimes, the money comes to you—or rather, challenges you to a fight. Ronin, masterless samurai wandering the countryside, are a consistent and surprisingly profitable source of Mon. You'll often find them patrolling roads, especially near bridges or along the paths between regions.

These aren't pushovers, but with a decent weapon, they're manageable. Defeating one typically rewards between 500 to 900 Mon. It's not a fortune, but oh boy, does it add up quickly, especially in the early game when every coin counts. Think of them as aggressive ATMs; you just have to make a withdrawal with your blade. For players based around the Miki Kakurega, a stroll down the surrounding paths is almost guaranteed to turn up a payday or two.

1. The Art of the Trade: Selling Valuables

Last but certainly not least, we have the most straightforward method of all: trading. Throughout your adventures, you'll amass a small mountain of loot—coins pilfered from guards, trinkets from chests, and various curios from cleared outposts. Much of this has no purpose other than to be converted into cold, hard Mon.

Merchants are plentiful in towns and outposts. Simply approach one, open your inventory, and sell anything marked as sellable (just be careful not to offload crafting materials or quest items!). It's a simple cycle: explore, collect, sell, repeat. This method turns every corner of the map into a potential revenue stream. Keeping your inventory lean by regularly selling junk is a habit that pays dividends, ensuring you always have the funds for that next crucial upgrade. By 2026, seasoned players know that a quick merchant visit after a major exploration session is non-negotiable.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it. Earning Mon in Assassin's Creed Shadows doesn't have to be a painful grind. It's about working smarter, not harder. Focus on the high-yield objective boards, take on quick contracts, plunder castles, duel wandering ronin, and always, always sell your spare loot. Mixing and matching these methods based on your playstyle and location will keep your finances healthy, letting you focus on what really matters: shaping the fate of feudal Japan. Now, go forth and fill those coffers—your next legendary piece of gear is waiting.