Most creatures like bugbears and goblins do not carry gold. They do not really use currency as much as they barter through barbaric means. The items they have are worth something, sell those items in town for gold.

 

The more advanced a creature is, the more advanced equipment it will carry. Some thieves may have a large load of stolen goods on them like rings and amulets. If you can kill a bandit like this, it should be worth a good amount of gold back in town.

 

Some creatures leave body parts behind like a Bugbear Tusk, that can be sold back in town too. Using the crafting system, those parts can be turned into essences and sold for even more gold if done right.

All merchants should tell the player how much they will purchase items for and not all merchants purchase all items so they will also tell you what they buy exactly. Check with each merchant to be sure that your getting the best deal. The Port City of Springwell Junction is well-known for purchasing any item in the world but they only pay 10% over the market value.

 

Import Agents in the different settlements are the most valuable places to cash in items. Certain settlements have high demand for certain items and getting to know those markets is how the best gold can be made.

 

All import agents should purchase essences and animal parts at a good price!