Interesting question of the day,
I see Money as anything that another person and yourself believe has value.
Paper, coin, something with an official mark designating it valuable.
Throughout history, Gold, Silver coins, paper money , digital cards, like credit cards, ALL have something the people believe in and is accepted by others. backed by something your told has value. and always has.
Its as plain as that. Money represents what everyone believes has value, but in reality isn't worth a damn thing.
Example: A natural disaster strikes or war and wipes out the power grid and floods the sewers , no way to provide water, no electricity, no way to get food in or out to the stores, which causes store looting and then shortage of food, now people need medication, water, food, clothing, shelter...would you accept money?
Hell no!, hopefully being prepared, you can barter some water for food or vice versa, or more ammo for protection, or as some are already, be forced , to trade labor or sex for whatever is determined to have value so you can buy your needed commodity, food water liquor wine, whatever! This is happening in war zones now.
Greed is the evil of mankind, and when the people are in need , those who have the means will take advantage of others at any cost so they can live like kings.
And that's why I say Silver and gold, and whatever precious stones that one can decorate themselves and surrounding .
Its a sign of power.
Sorry so long.... Happy Fathers Day to all the Great pops out there!!! And Mothers who are both a Mother and a Father to their children!