a price on one's head

What is the origin of the idiom "a price on one's head" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "a price on one's head" can be traced back to historical practices of offering bounties for capturing or killing wanted individuals. In ancient times and throughout history, it was not uncommon for authorities or powerful figures to offer a monetary reward, or "price," to incentivize others to capture or harm a specific person. This practice was particularly prevalent during times of political unrest, where rewards were often offered for the capture or elimination of political enemies or fugitives.