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Zealousideal-Web5346 t1_j2zg31s wrote

The messed part is the only real use for gold only came around 50 years ago when we started making computer parts since it doesnt corrode

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TgagHammerstrike t1_j2zr6mg wrote

Not necessarily; gold has been used in dentistry for hundreds of years.

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krectus t1_j2zscy5 wrote

It’s for this reason it was used for coins and other items before that so I’m not sure “real use” is accurate here.

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Forgot-My-Name_again t1_j30cmco wrote

Right, and gold leafing on books actually protects the pages, makes handling easier, and prevents paper cuts. I'd call that a real use. Gold fillings, a material that can actually be cold impact welded in an environment as bad as a human mouth and wing break down after installation. Gold mending of materials. The low melting point makes it easy to work, ideal for repairs.

All of those are genuine historic uses of gold that aren't just GOLD PRETTY. I mean, the attractive end result sure doesn't hurt, but the properties of the gold itself are the reason to choose it.

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Zealousideal-Web5346 t1_j2zwxpz wrote

NERD ALERT!

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Zealousideal-Web5346 t1_j3014lc wrote

Oh boy. Shiny doesn't mean useful. Love the hate. Pour it on

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WarrenPuff_It t1_j30ap1v wrote

One of the main qualities of money is it needs to be durable, you daft mustard packet. Having your coins not rust makes them more durable than other metals.

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fulanomengano t1_j30eyvt wrote

Nope. It’s value in the past didn’t come from being shinny and pretty. Its physical and chemical properties like not being corroded, it’s usage in alloys and the fact that didn’t cause allergic or other reactions when in contact with skin is what made it valuable.

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LuKeNuKuM t1_j32fk0v wrote

Plus the fact it's hard to mine having a high stock to flow ratio. This makes it a good store of value over time. Unlike fiat currencies that no longer adhere to the gold standard and devalue over time because more is produced.

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zucksucksmyberg t1_j30xtu4 wrote

Funny though that prior to the discovery of vast silver in the New World, silver was rarer and more valuable than gold.

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