Normally, a bounty is issued by a Government official or by the Marines. The idea is to tempt others into aiding the capture of the criminal so they can be brought to justice quickly.

 

A bounty reflects both the threat and power of an individual. Engaging in activities deemed criminal by the World Government or associating with groups which engage in them is enough to warrant significant bounties, even if the criminal is not powerful themselves. In particular, direct opposition to the World Government, no matter the reason, is treated as a serious offense, and bounties are issued accordingly.

 

After a bounty is issued, it can later be increased for several reasons:

1-The threat of a person’s observed combat abilities.2-More experienced bounty hunters volunteering to capture the individual or group.3-Further criminal acts beyond the initial one.4-Inspiring criminal acts when provoked or inciting others to act ‘criminally’.5-Having knowledge deemed illegal by the World Government.6-Solely being associated with a notable criminal figure.

Here are the 50 Highest Known Bounties ever in One Piece:

Gol D. Roger ฿5,564,800,000

 

Edward Newgate ฿5,046,000,000

 

Kaido ฿4,611,100,000

 

Charlotte Linlin ฿4,388,000,000

 

Shanks฿4,048,900,000

 

Marshall D. Teach ฿3,996,000,00

 

Dracule Mihawk ฿3,590,000,000

 

Buggy ฿3,189,000,000

 

Monkey D. Luffy ฿3,000,000,000

 

Trafalgar Law ฿3,000,000,000

 

Eustass Kid ฿3,000,000,000

 

Crocodile ฿1,965,000,000

 

King The Wildfire ฿1,390,000,000

 

Marco ฿1,374,000,000

 

Queen ฿1,320,000,000

 

Zoro ฿1,101,000,000

 

Jinbe ฿1,100,000,000

 

Charlotte Katakuri ฿1,057,000,000

 

Sanji ฿1,032,000,000

 

Jack ฿1,000,000,000

 

Charlotte Smoothie ฿932,000,000

 

Nico Robin ฿930,000,000

 

Charlotte Cracker ฿860,000,000

 

Charlotte Perospero ฿700,000,000

 

Sabo ฿602,000,000