There will be other digital currencies as with bitcoin (backed by algorithms) that have intangible values based on time, and more. Also gold and silver have been currency and a backing base for paper currency like salt, or tulips. I feel all the above are intangible/based on belief of value including bitcoin. You can hold a gold coin, silver coin, paper currency, etc. but all of the above are based on a belief of the purchasing power of the currency. So I agree digital currency is the future for various reasons but still classify bitcoin or digital currency as an intangible asset like fiat currency, gold or silver. The holder determines the value. Fiat currency fluctuates, as well as gold and silver prices, and bitcoin. As we know the value of bitcoin, backed by algorithm mining, has surpassed both gold and silver prices (industrial mining) combined within years. Again their will be other digital currency mining platforms in my forecast. Great points regarding silver. Compared to all of the above currencies, silver is a must have due to industrial, medical, and when the %$&^ hits the fan uses. Silver is both tangible, intangible, and useful. Thank you, silverdragon, for an excellent post.