Why was gold and silver in our numismatics coins

 

Silver and gold were chosen for coinage primarily due to their intrinsic qualities that make them suitable as currency:

1. **Durability**: Both silver and gold are highly durable metals that do not corrode or tarnish easily. This durability ensures that coins made from these metals can withstand circulation and remain in good condition over time.

2. **Divisibility**: Silver and gold can be easily divided into smaller units without losing their value. This divisibility is crucial for creating coins of varying denominations to facilitate trade and commerce.

3. **Scarcity**: Silver and gold are relatively scarce compared to other metals, making them valuable commodities. Their scarcity adds to their perceived value as currency.

4. **Uniformity**: Silver and gold can be easily shaped and minted into standardized coins of consistent weight and purity. This uniformity ensures that each coin carries a guaranteed value and is easily recognizable as genuine currency.

5. **Intrinsic Value**: Unlike fiat currency, which derives its value from government decree, silver and gold have intrinsic value based on their rarity and usefulness in various industries such as jewelry, electronics, and dentistry.

6. **Portability**: Silver and gold have a high value-to-weight ratio, making them easy to transport and exchange, especially in times when long-distance trade was prevalent.

Overall, the combination of durability, divisibility, scarcity, uniformity, intrinsic value, and portability made silver and gold ideal choices for coinage throughout history. These qualities continue to make them valuable assets and forms of currency in modern times, albeit in different forms such as bullion coins and bars.