adv. phr. [L. (according to value, (in proportion) to worth.] A phrase (properly adverbial, but more commonly attributive) meaning ‘in proportion to the value,’ applied to a mode of levying customs-duties upon goods, when these are taxed at rates proportioned to their estimated value.
1711. Act 10 Anne, xix. § 34. The said Books, Prints and Maps as are to pay the said Duties ad Valorem.
1787. Pitt, Sp. on Customs Bill, 21 March. Particularly the case of ad valorem duties.
1825. Edin. Rev., XLIII. 76. Silk goods are to be freely admitted … on payment of an ad valorem duty of 30 per cent.
1866. Crump, Banking, iv. 88. Cheques drawn out of the United Kingdom are … required to have ad valorem foreign stamps.
