I'm wondering what form of specie was provided as payment to U.S. Army and militia enlistees in the War of 1812. Also, what was the age of enlistment?

As a 16 and 17 year "old" volunteer, my ggg-grf George W. Fletcher (1796-1860) served three short periods with three different KY Militia units. His last service was with Capt John Louden's "Company of Spies" (meaning: scouts). I fondly muse that for this last service, his horse "was paid" 50% more than he was! Old George's pay records show that he was paid $8/mo for himself and $12.40/mo for his horse. Morris Fletcher China, MI ----- Original Message ----- From: "Ken Macdonald" To: <WARof1812-L@rootsweb.com> Subject: payment of American soldiers I'm wondering what form of specie was provided as payment to U.S. Army and militia enlistees in the War of 1812. Also, what was the age of enlistment?