The true and only value, which the coins have as money, is that value which they have as metals, for uses in the arts,--that is, for plate, watches, jewelry, and the like.
Lysander Spooner: “The true and only value, which the coins have as money, is that value which they have as metals, for uses in the…”
Editor's note · Context
Spooner discusses the intrinsic value of coins based on their material, rather than their currency status.
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They do not tell us that all liberty and order would be destroyed, that society itself would go to pieces, and man go back to barbarism, if it were not for the care, and supervision, and protection, they lavish upon us.
They do not tell us that they have established infallible supreme courts, to whom they refer all questions as to the legality of their acts, and that they do nothing that is not sanctioned by these courts.
They do not tell us of the almshouses, hospitals, schools, churches, etc., which, out of the purest charity and benevolence, they maintain for our benefit, out of the money they take from us.
They do not carry their heads high, above all other men, and demand our reverence and admiration, as statesmen, patriots, and benefactors.