Which pelts were especially valuable to Russian fur traders?

• A. Sea otters, seals, and beavers
• B. Polar bears
• C. Whales
• D. Caribou

Answer: (A)

Pelt value in the Russian fur trade depended on luxury, demand, and availability. Sea otter pelts were the standout prize because their dense, glossy fur made extremely desirable garments and hats in European markets, so they fetched top prices and drove much of the Pacific coast trade. Beaver pelts were also highly sought after, since beaver hats remained fashionable in Europe for a long time, and Alaska offered abundant beaver populations that fed a large inland trade. Seals were traded as well, but their pelts did not reach the same levels of prestige or price as sea otter and beaver pelts. Polar bears, whales, and caribou pelts played much smaller roles in the fur trade compared to these two dominant varieties.