Crypto vs. Metal

If you're here on STEEM, you're probably at least interested in the idea of cryptocurrency as a monetary system. Some are proponents, others are skeptics, but we're all looking for alternatives to legacy fiat money, something that lies outside the realm of political manipulation. Over the past couple decades, we have seen many countries experience currency collapses and economic chaos. Here in the US, many believe the Federal Reserve is a bastion against such upheaval, although I think like most government programs, it is more an instigator than a protector. Having an alternative is always a good thing, even if we continue using government fiat money in day-to-day transactions for now.

That said, it is worth considering older alternatives. Once upon a time, money was metal. There were still problems with debasement, arbitrary exchange rates between commodities that rarely matched market rates, fractional reserve banking policies, and the like, but actual silver and gold coins may still have a place in modern society. Cash is largely anonymous, and governments hate that. At least, they hate it when we mundanes are free to act outside their scope of surveillance. Precious metals are entirely outside the government's banking system now, so it creates a gray market of relative freedom when we use them for face-to-face exchange.

In places with greater economic instability or more overtly authoritarian governments, precious metals can serve as a hedge against bank failures, currency collapses, and police state surveillance all at once while avoiding the problem of electric and internet failure too. It's also more likely to be accepted by older generations who may remember silver coinage.

By all means, let's continue to pursue STEEM, Bitcoin, Monero, and various altcoins. But let's not forget to diversify our assets. Silver may not be an investment per se, but it's a superb hedge, and it's far more accessible than gold in day-to-day trading.