Mixing
Rings as a monetary system
Clash Royale CLAN TAG#URR8PPP
up vote
3
down vote
favorite
Can rings be used as a monetary system? are there any flaws?
I took inspiration from Celtic ring money, ring made from different metals- the value of a ring dependent on the material its made out of. eg, a copper ring would cost less than a silver ring, and that would cost less than a golden ring etc.
People would wear these on fingers. I think there might be problem with thievery etc. Any ideas to make it better or express any flaws?
society economy
asked 2 hours ago
Uncertainty
164
New contributor
Uncertainty is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
add a comment |Â
up vote
3
down vote
favorite
Can rings be used as a monetary system? are there any flaws?
I took inspiration from Celtic ring money, ring made from different metals- the value of a ring dependent on the material its made out of. eg, a copper ring would cost less than a silver ring, and that would cost less than a golden ring etc.
People would wear these on fingers. I think there might be problem with thievery etc. Any ideas to make it better or express any flaws?
society economy
asked 2 hours ago
Uncertainty
164
New contributor
Uncertainty is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
2
Sonic the Hedgehog. Boom.
– user45266
2 hours ago
2
@user45266 The rings were just a means to an end. The real end was the Chaos emeralds.
– Michael Kjörling♦
1 hour ago
@MichaelKjörling The emeralds are just a status symbol being purchased with the rings you worked for.
– Frostfyre
1 min ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
3
down vote
favorite
up vote
3
down vote
favorite
Can rings be used as a monetary system? are there any flaws?
I took inspiration from Celtic ring money, ring made from different metals- the value of a ring dependent on the material its made out of. eg, a copper ring would cost less than a silver ring, and that would cost less than a golden ring etc.
People would wear these on fingers. I think there might be problem with thievery etc. Any ideas to make it better or express any flaws?
society economy
asked 2 hours ago
Uncertainty
164
New contributor
Uncertainty is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
Can rings be used as a monetary system? are there any flaws?
I took inspiration from Celtic ring money, ring made from different metals- the value of a ring dependent on the material its made out of. eg, a copper ring would cost less than a silver ring, and that would cost less than a golden ring etc.
People would wear these on fingers. I think there might be problem with thievery etc. Any ideas to make it better or express any flaws?
society economy
society economy
asked 2 hours ago
Uncertainty
164
New contributor
Uncertainty is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
asked 2 hours ago
Uncertainty
164
New contributor
Uncertainty is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
asked 2 hours ago
Uncertainty
164
New contributor
Uncertainty is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
asked 2 hours ago
Uncertainty
164
asked 2 hours ago
Uncertainty
164
164
New contributor
Uncertainty is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
New contributor
Uncertainty is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
Uncertainty is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
2
Sonic the Hedgehog. Boom.
– user45266
2 hours ago
2
@user45266 The rings were just a means to an end. The real end was the Chaos emeralds.
– Michael Kjörling♦
1 hour ago
@MichaelKjörling The emeralds are just a status symbol being purchased with the rings you worked for.
– Frostfyre
1 min ago
add a comment |Â
2
Sonic the Hedgehog. Boom.
– user45266
2 hours ago
2
@user45266 The rings were just a means to an end. The real end was the Chaos emeralds.
– Michael Kjörling♦
1 hour ago
@MichaelKjörling The emeralds are just a status symbol being purchased with the rings you worked for.
– Frostfyre
1 min ago
2
2
Sonic the Hedgehog. Boom.
– user45266
2 hours ago
Sonic the Hedgehog. Boom.
– user45266
2 hours ago
2
2
@user45266 The rings were just a means to an end. The real end was the Chaos emeralds.
– Michael Kjörling♦
1 hour ago
@user45266 The rings were just a means to an end. The real end was the Chaos emeralds.
– Michael Kjörling♦
1 hour ago
@MichaelKjörling The emeralds are just a status symbol being purchased with the rings you worked for.
– Frostfyre
1 min ago
@MichaelKjörling The emeralds are just a status symbol being purchased with the rings you worked for.
– Frostfyre
1 min ago
add a comment |Â
5 Answers
5
active
oldest
votes
up vote
3
down vote
accepted
Traditionally Japanese coins had holes through the middle and could be strung together for ease of transportation:
Japanese coins courtesy of Wikipedia https://i.stack.imgur.com/06CoU.jpg
In the Dune series the Fremen would use rings as currency backed by water, these weren't worn on fingers but in their hair so another take on stringing them.
So it's not an uncommon idea, however it's probably not a good idea to wear them on fingers as people have different finger sizes so often the rings wouldn't fit and you have a maximum finger capacity for rings, it would also be difficult to hold things if your fingers are covered in rings. Imagine bandits attack you and your fingers are unable to bend due to being covered in rings so you can't grab your sword. I imagine in such a world people would end up stringing the rings together anyway.
answered 1 hour ago
Geneworm
642
New contributor
Geneworm is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
hm... i didnt think about that... thanks for the insight! yeah now that i think about it... ill have to either work out a new monetary system or try to figure out an original idea to 'store' the rings. Thanks!
– Uncertainty
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
1
down vote
Anything can be used as money, as long as the society using it agrees that it has value, or represents value, in a consistent manner. For some examples, see https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/WeirdCurrency - specifically, the last section, with "Real World" examples.
Chinese coins at one time were square-pierced disks; this is the origin of the square-pierced tokens in modern mah-jongg sets, and also ultimately led to the symbols on the "dot" and "bamboo" suits in the game; the dot was originally a single coin, and the "bamboo" stick was actually a string of 100 coins.
answered 1 hour ago
Jeff Zeitlin
1,141312
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
Not a new concept. Coins have been struck with holes in the middle to reduce their value
https://c8.alamy.com/comp/EJX2RP/a-string-of-ancient-coins-EJX2RP.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/236x/e3/77/dd/e377dde3f7fa5d76f54b4ce11395dc1e--chinese-style-feng-shui.jpg
https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSmbZjeAM58oWw3aP-edjUU1RM-UNf2fd3H_TpXC66N8kIt-CBJAw
Wearing them as rings is a problem as it both limits mobility and the amount of money you can carry
answered 2 hours ago
nzaman
7,69411340
Please note that the result of Google searches is highly dependent on your previous search history, as well as that it obviously can change over time (Google is likely to revise their algorithms, and online content changes with time). If it matters, then please reference the relevant content directly, and/or incorporate the salient points directly into your answer.
– Michael Kjörling♦
2 hours ago
@MichaelKjörling: Done
– nzaman
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
Besides real-life cultures, the videogame Tyranny uses rings as currency:
https://tyranny.gamepedia.com/Rings
These rings aren't really coins, but more like loops of metal. They also aren't worn on fingers, but on strings, ropes, or leather cords tied around the waist or neck. In fact, as stated in the linked wiki article:
"As rings are used as currency, it is considered vulgar to wear rings as adornment or jewelry. Such decorations are seen as vulgar, and those who wear them are held in contempt."
Of course, you're free to invent whatever customs you like.
Threading rings with cords or tying them with ropes makes for easier transport (and would allow individuals to carry more than 18 rings (assuming 2 per finger and 1 per thumb) at a time.
If what you're looking for is more like coins with holes, you might still tie them together with cord or string, for ease of use. Specific stacks of rings might be a standard lump sum. For example, a string holding 10 copper rings might be the in-universe equivalent of a €5,- bill.
That might lead to slang terms for specific amounts of money. Think of people referring to 1 dollar as a 'buck' in reference to deers, which were hunted so much that a deer hide at one point only cost 1 dollar. Hence, a buck. Or I've heard people refer to 100 dollar bills as Franklins, in reference to the guy depicted on the bill.
Of course, you can always carry rings in a purse or bag instead. That might be less vulnerable to theft, depending on the construction of the bag and cords under consideration.
answered 1 hour ago
TvB
212
New contributor
TvB is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
Not an easy system.
Coins can be minted with basic technology. Rings can be easily made too, but putting any distinguishing marks on a ring is technologically more difficult (Signet rings). You can have plain rings, but then anyone can make rings, and they would no longer have a face value.
Engraving would work for high value rings, the ones that worth more than their weight in gold.
P.S. This answer assumes that the ring must be wearable and not just a "topological ring" like pierced coin.
answered 1 hour ago
Alexander
17.3k42969
But "face value" is a rather abstract concept, and really doesn't work if the populace is used to currency that's actual precious metals. They'll develop various ways of telling older, more pure coinage from the adulterated ones the new Emperor just introduced.
– jamesqf
1 hour ago
yes, i meant it as a wearable ring... now that ive read some thoughts on it, i really need to think the whole monetary system through again... Thankyou for the answer!
– Uncertainty
1 hour ago
@jamesqf having a limited set of instruments with face value is infinitely better than having no face value at all. Without face value, one would have to always use scales and have suspicion about composition of a ring.
– Alexander
1 hour ago
@Alexander: Coins with intrinsic value did not have "face values" (that is, inscriptions saying so many units) until very very recently. Greek coins, Roman coins, medieval coins, Renaissance coins did not carry such inscriptions. Everybody was supposed to know the sizes, weights and engravings of coins in common circulation.
– AlexP
32 mins ago
@AlexP so, the face value of old coins was "1". My point is that without a legible stamp, it is very difficult to determine intrinsic value of an object.
– Alexander
27 mins ago
add a comment |Â
5 Answers
5
active
oldest
votes
5 Answers
5
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
up vote
3
down vote
accepted
Traditionally Japanese coins had holes through the middle and could be strung together for ease of transportation:
Japanese coins courtesy of Wikipedia https://i.stack.imgur.com/06CoU.jpg
In the Dune series the Fremen would use rings as currency backed by water, these weren't worn on fingers but in their hair so another take on stringing them.
So it's not an uncommon idea, however it's probably not a good idea to wear them on fingers as people have different finger sizes so often the rings wouldn't fit and you have a maximum finger capacity for rings, it would also be difficult to hold things if your fingers are covered in rings. Imagine bandits attack you and your fingers are unable to bend due to being covered in rings so you can't grab your sword. I imagine in such a world people would end up stringing the rings together anyway.
answered 1 hour ago
Geneworm
642
New contributor
Geneworm is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
hm... i didnt think about that... thanks for the insight! yeah now that i think about it... ill have to either work out a new monetary system or try to figure out an original idea to 'store' the rings. Thanks!
– Uncertainty
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
3
down vote
accepted
Traditionally Japanese coins had holes through the middle and could be strung together for ease of transportation:
Japanese coins courtesy of Wikipedia https://i.stack.imgur.com/06CoU.jpg
In the Dune series the Fremen would use rings as currency backed by water, these weren't worn on fingers but in their hair so another take on stringing them.
So it's not an uncommon idea, however it's probably not a good idea to wear them on fingers as people have different finger sizes so often the rings wouldn't fit and you have a maximum finger capacity for rings, it would also be difficult to hold things if your fingers are covered in rings. Imagine bandits attack you and your fingers are unable to bend due to being covered in rings so you can't grab your sword. I imagine in such a world people would end up stringing the rings together anyway.
answered 1 hour ago
Geneworm
642
New contributor
Geneworm is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
hm... i didnt think about that... thanks for the insight! yeah now that i think about it... ill have to either work out a new monetary system or try to figure out an original idea to 'store' the rings. Thanks!
– Uncertainty
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
3
down vote
accepted
up vote
3
down vote
accepted
Traditionally Japanese coins had holes through the middle and could be strung together for ease of transportation:
Japanese coins courtesy of Wikipedia https://i.stack.imgur.com/06CoU.jpg
In the Dune series the Fremen would use rings as currency backed by water, these weren't worn on fingers but in their hair so another take on stringing them.
So it's not an uncommon idea, however it's probably not a good idea to wear them on fingers as people have different finger sizes so often the rings wouldn't fit and you have a maximum finger capacity for rings, it would also be difficult to hold things if your fingers are covered in rings. Imagine bandits attack you and your fingers are unable to bend due to being covered in rings so you can't grab your sword. I imagine in such a world people would end up stringing the rings together anyway.
answered 1 hour ago
Geneworm
642
New contributor
Geneworm is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
Traditionally Japanese coins had holes through the middle and could be strung together for ease of transportation:
Japanese coins courtesy of Wikipedia https://i.stack.imgur.com/06CoU.jpg
In the Dune series the Fremen would use rings as currency backed by water, these weren't worn on fingers but in their hair so another take on stringing them.
So it's not an uncommon idea, however it's probably not a good idea to wear them on fingers as people have different finger sizes so often the rings wouldn't fit and you have a maximum finger capacity for rings, it would also be difficult to hold things if your fingers are covered in rings. Imagine bandits attack you and your fingers are unable to bend due to being covered in rings so you can't grab your sword. I imagine in such a world people would end up stringing the rings together anyway.
answered 1 hour ago
Geneworm
642
New contributor
Geneworm is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
edited 58 mins ago
answered 1 hour ago
Geneworm
642
New contributor
Geneworm is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
answered 1 hour ago
Geneworm
642
answered 1 hour ago
Geneworm
642
642
New contributor
Geneworm is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
New contributor
Geneworm is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
Geneworm is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
hm... i didnt think about that... thanks for the insight! yeah now that i think about it... ill have to either work out a new monetary system or try to figure out an original idea to 'store' the rings. Thanks!
– Uncertainty
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
hm... i didnt think about that... thanks for the insight! yeah now that i think about it... ill have to either work out a new monetary system or try to figure out an original idea to 'store' the rings. Thanks!
– Uncertainty
1 hour ago
hm... i didnt think about that... thanks for the insight! yeah now that i think about it... ill have to either work out a new monetary system or try to figure out an original idea to 'store' the rings. Thanks!
– Uncertainty
1 hour ago
hm... i didnt think about that... thanks for the insight! yeah now that i think about it... ill have to either work out a new monetary system or try to figure out an original idea to 'store' the rings. Thanks!
– Uncertainty
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
1
down vote
Anything can be used as money, as long as the society using it agrees that it has value, or represents value, in a consistent manner. For some examples, see https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/WeirdCurrency - specifically, the last section, with "Real World" examples.
Chinese coins at one time were square-pierced disks; this is the origin of the square-pierced tokens in modern mah-jongg sets, and also ultimately led to the symbols on the "dot" and "bamboo" suits in the game; the dot was originally a single coin, and the "bamboo" stick was actually a string of 100 coins.
answered 1 hour ago
Jeff Zeitlin
1,141312
add a comment |Â
up vote
1
down vote
Anything can be used as money, as long as the society using it agrees that it has value, or represents value, in a consistent manner. For some examples, see https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/WeirdCurrency - specifically, the last section, with "Real World" examples.
Chinese coins at one time were square-pierced disks; this is the origin of the square-pierced tokens in modern mah-jongg sets, and also ultimately led to the symbols on the "dot" and "bamboo" suits in the game; the dot was originally a single coin, and the "bamboo" stick was actually a string of 100 coins.
answered 1 hour ago
Jeff Zeitlin
1,141312
add a comment |Â
up vote
1
down vote
up vote
1
down vote
Anything can be used as money, as long as the society using it agrees that it has value, or represents value, in a consistent manner. For some examples, see https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/WeirdCurrency - specifically, the last section, with "Real World" examples.
Chinese coins at one time were square-pierced disks; this is the origin of the square-pierced tokens in modern mah-jongg sets, and also ultimately led to the symbols on the "dot" and "bamboo" suits in the game; the dot was originally a single coin, and the "bamboo" stick was actually a string of 100 coins.
answered 1 hour ago
Jeff Zeitlin
1,141312
Anything can be used as money, as long as the society using it agrees that it has value, or represents value, in a consistent manner. For some examples, see https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/WeirdCurrency - specifically, the last section, with "Real World" examples.
Chinese coins at one time were square-pierced disks; this is the origin of the square-pierced tokens in modern mah-jongg sets, and also ultimately led to the symbols on the "dot" and "bamboo" suits in the game; the dot was originally a single coin, and the "bamboo" stick was actually a string of 100 coins.
answered 1 hour ago
Jeff Zeitlin
1,141312
answered 1 hour ago
Jeff Zeitlin
1,141312
answered 1 hour ago
Jeff Zeitlin
1,141312
answered 1 hour ago
Jeff Zeitlin
1,141312
1,141312
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
Not a new concept. Coins have been struck with holes in the middle to reduce their value
https://c8.alamy.com/comp/EJX2RP/a-string-of-ancient-coins-EJX2RP.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/236x/e3/77/dd/e377dde3f7fa5d76f54b4ce11395dc1e--chinese-style-feng-shui.jpg
https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSmbZjeAM58oWw3aP-edjUU1RM-UNf2fd3H_TpXC66N8kIt-CBJAw
Wearing them as rings is a problem as it both limits mobility and the amount of money you can carry
answered 2 hours ago
nzaman
7,69411340
Please note that the result of Google searches is highly dependent on your previous search history, as well as that it obviously can change over time (Google is likely to revise their algorithms, and online content changes with time). If it matters, then please reference the relevant content directly, and/or incorporate the salient points directly into your answer.
– Michael Kjörling♦
2 hours ago
@MichaelKjörling: Done
– nzaman
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
Not a new concept. Coins have been struck with holes in the middle to reduce their value
https://c8.alamy.com/comp/EJX2RP/a-string-of-ancient-coins-EJX2RP.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/236x/e3/77/dd/e377dde3f7fa5d76f54b4ce11395dc1e--chinese-style-feng-shui.jpg
https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSmbZjeAM58oWw3aP-edjUU1RM-UNf2fd3H_TpXC66N8kIt-CBJAw
Wearing them as rings is a problem as it both limits mobility and the amount of money you can carry
answered 2 hours ago
nzaman
7,69411340
Please note that the result of Google searches is highly dependent on your previous search history, as well as that it obviously can change over time (Google is likely to revise their algorithms, and online content changes with time). If it matters, then please reference the relevant content directly, and/or incorporate the salient points directly into your answer.
– Michael Kjörling♦
2 hours ago
@MichaelKjörling: Done
– nzaman
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
up vote
0
down vote
Not a new concept. Coins have been struck with holes in the middle to reduce their value
https://c8.alamy.com/comp/EJX2RP/a-string-of-ancient-coins-EJX2RP.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/236x/e3/77/dd/e377dde3f7fa5d76f54b4ce11395dc1e--chinese-style-feng-shui.jpg
https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSmbZjeAM58oWw3aP-edjUU1RM-UNf2fd3H_TpXC66N8kIt-CBJAw
Wearing them as rings is a problem as it both limits mobility and the amount of money you can carry
answered 2 hours ago
nzaman
7,69411340
Not a new concept. Coins have been struck with holes in the middle to reduce their value
https://c8.alamy.com/comp/EJX2RP/a-string-of-ancient-coins-EJX2RP.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/236x/e3/77/dd/e377dde3f7fa5d76f54b4ce11395dc1e--chinese-style-feng-shui.jpg
https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSmbZjeAM58oWw3aP-edjUU1RM-UNf2fd3H_TpXC66N8kIt-CBJAw
Wearing them as rings is a problem as it both limits mobility and the amount of money you can carry
answered 2 hours ago
nzaman
7,69411340
edited 1 hour ago
answered 2 hours ago
nzaman
7,69411340
answered 2 hours ago
nzaman
7,69411340
answered 2 hours ago
nzaman
7,69411340
7,69411340
Please note that the result of Google searches is highly dependent on your previous search history, as well as that it obviously can change over time (Google is likely to revise their algorithms, and online content changes with time). If it matters, then please reference the relevant content directly, and/or incorporate the salient points directly into your answer.
– Michael Kjörling♦
2 hours ago
@MichaelKjörling: Done
– nzaman
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
Please note that the result of Google searches is highly dependent on your previous search history, as well as that it obviously can change over time (Google is likely to revise their algorithms, and online content changes with time). If it matters, then please reference the relevant content directly, and/or incorporate the salient points directly into your answer.
– Michael Kjörling♦
2 hours ago
@MichaelKjörling: Done
– nzaman
1 hour ago
Please note that the result of Google searches is highly dependent on your previous search history, as well as that it obviously can change over time (Google is likely to revise their algorithms, and online content changes with time). If it matters, then please reference the relevant content directly, and/or incorporate the salient points directly into your answer.
– Michael Kjörling♦
2 hours ago
Please note that the result of Google searches is highly dependent on your previous search history, as well as that it obviously can change over time (Google is likely to revise their algorithms, and online content changes with time). If it matters, then please reference the relevant content directly, and/or incorporate the salient points directly into your answer.
– Michael Kjörling♦
2 hours ago
@MichaelKjörling: Done
– nzaman
1 hour ago
@MichaelKjörling: Done
– nzaman
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
Besides real-life cultures, the videogame Tyranny uses rings as currency:
https://tyranny.gamepedia.com/Rings
These rings aren't really coins, but more like loops of metal. They also aren't worn on fingers, but on strings, ropes, or leather cords tied around the waist or neck. In fact, as stated in the linked wiki article:
"As rings are used as currency, it is considered vulgar to wear rings as adornment or jewelry. Such decorations are seen as vulgar, and those who wear them are held in contempt."
Of course, you're free to invent whatever customs you like.
Threading rings with cords or tying them with ropes makes for easier transport (and would allow individuals to carry more than 18 rings (assuming 2 per finger and 1 per thumb) at a time.
If what you're looking for is more like coins with holes, you might still tie them together with cord or string, for ease of use. Specific stacks of rings might be a standard lump sum. For example, a string holding 10 copper rings might be the in-universe equivalent of a €5,- bill.
That might lead to slang terms for specific amounts of money. Think of people referring to 1 dollar as a 'buck' in reference to deers, which were hunted so much that a deer hide at one point only cost 1 dollar. Hence, a buck. Or I've heard people refer to 100 dollar bills as Franklins, in reference to the guy depicted on the bill.
Of course, you can always carry rings in a purse or bag instead. That might be less vulnerable to theft, depending on the construction of the bag and cords under consideration.
answered 1 hour ago
TvB
212
New contributor
TvB is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
Besides real-life cultures, the videogame Tyranny uses rings as currency:
https://tyranny.gamepedia.com/Rings
These rings aren't really coins, but more like loops of metal. They also aren't worn on fingers, but on strings, ropes, or leather cords tied around the waist or neck. In fact, as stated in the linked wiki article:
"As rings are used as currency, it is considered vulgar to wear rings as adornment or jewelry. Such decorations are seen as vulgar, and those who wear them are held in contempt."
Of course, you're free to invent whatever customs you like.
Threading rings with cords or tying them with ropes makes for easier transport (and would allow individuals to carry more than 18 rings (assuming 2 per finger and 1 per thumb) at a time.
If what you're looking for is more like coins with holes, you might still tie them together with cord or string, for ease of use. Specific stacks of rings might be a standard lump sum. For example, a string holding 10 copper rings might be the in-universe equivalent of a €5,- bill.
That might lead to slang terms for specific amounts of money. Think of people referring to 1 dollar as a 'buck' in reference to deers, which were hunted so much that a deer hide at one point only cost 1 dollar. Hence, a buck. Or I've heard people refer to 100 dollar bills as Franklins, in reference to the guy depicted on the bill.
Of course, you can always carry rings in a purse or bag instead. That might be less vulnerable to theft, depending on the construction of the bag and cords under consideration.
answered 1 hour ago
TvB
212
New contributor
TvB is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
up vote
0
down vote
Besides real-life cultures, the videogame Tyranny uses rings as currency:
https://tyranny.gamepedia.com/Rings
These rings aren't really coins, but more like loops of metal. They also aren't worn on fingers, but on strings, ropes, or leather cords tied around the waist or neck. In fact, as stated in the linked wiki article:
"As rings are used as currency, it is considered vulgar to wear rings as adornment or jewelry. Such decorations are seen as vulgar, and those who wear them are held in contempt."
Of course, you're free to invent whatever customs you like.
Threading rings with cords or tying them with ropes makes for easier transport (and would allow individuals to carry more than 18 rings (assuming 2 per finger and 1 per thumb) at a time.
If what you're looking for is more like coins with holes, you might still tie them together with cord or string, for ease of use. Specific stacks of rings might be a standard lump sum. For example, a string holding 10 copper rings might be the in-universe equivalent of a €5,- bill.
That might lead to slang terms for specific amounts of money. Think of people referring to 1 dollar as a 'buck' in reference to deers, which were hunted so much that a deer hide at one point only cost 1 dollar. Hence, a buck. Or I've heard people refer to 100 dollar bills as Franklins, in reference to the guy depicted on the bill.
Of course, you can always carry rings in a purse or bag instead. That might be less vulnerable to theft, depending on the construction of the bag and cords under consideration.
answered 1 hour ago
TvB
212
New contributor
TvB is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
Besides real-life cultures, the videogame Tyranny uses rings as currency:
https://tyranny.gamepedia.com/Rings
These rings aren't really coins, but more like loops of metal. They also aren't worn on fingers, but on strings, ropes, or leather cords tied around the waist or neck. In fact, as stated in the linked wiki article:
"As rings are used as currency, it is considered vulgar to wear rings as adornment or jewelry. Such decorations are seen as vulgar, and those who wear them are held in contempt."
Of course, you're free to invent whatever customs you like.
Threading rings with cords or tying them with ropes makes for easier transport (and would allow individuals to carry more than 18 rings (assuming 2 per finger and 1 per thumb) at a time.
If what you're looking for is more like coins with holes, you might still tie them together with cord or string, for ease of use. Specific stacks of rings might be a standard lump sum. For example, a string holding 10 copper rings might be the in-universe equivalent of a €5,- bill.
That might lead to slang terms for specific amounts of money. Think of people referring to 1 dollar as a 'buck' in reference to deers, which were hunted so much that a deer hide at one point only cost 1 dollar. Hence, a buck. Or I've heard people refer to 100 dollar bills as Franklins, in reference to the guy depicted on the bill.
Of course, you can always carry rings in a purse or bag instead. That might be less vulnerable to theft, depending on the construction of the bag and cords under consideration.
answered 1 hour ago
TvB
212
New contributor
TvB is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
answered 1 hour ago
TvB
212
New contributor
TvB is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
answered 1 hour ago
TvB
212
answered 1 hour ago
TvB
212
212
New contributor
TvB is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
New contributor
TvB is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
TvB is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
Not an easy system.
Coins can be minted with basic technology. Rings can be easily made too, but putting any distinguishing marks on a ring is technologically more difficult (Signet rings). You can have plain rings, but then anyone can make rings, and they would no longer have a face value.
Engraving would work for high value rings, the ones that worth more than their weight in gold.
P.S. This answer assumes that the ring must be wearable and not just a "topological ring" like pierced coin.
answered 1 hour ago
Alexander
17.3k42969
But "face value" is a rather abstract concept, and really doesn't work if the populace is used to currency that's actual precious metals. They'll develop various ways of telling older, more pure coinage from the adulterated ones the new Emperor just introduced.
– jamesqf
1 hour ago
yes, i meant it as a wearable ring... now that ive read some thoughts on it, i really need to think the whole monetary system through again... Thankyou for the answer!
– Uncertainty
1 hour ago
@jamesqf having a limited set of instruments with face value is infinitely better than having no face value at all. Without face value, one would have to always use scales and have suspicion about composition of a ring.
– Alexander
1 hour ago
@Alexander: Coins with intrinsic value did not have "face values" (that is, inscriptions saying so many units) until very very recently. Greek coins, Roman coins, medieval coins, Renaissance coins did not carry such inscriptions. Everybody was supposed to know the sizes, weights and engravings of coins in common circulation.
– AlexP
32 mins ago
@AlexP so, the face value of old coins was "1". My point is that without a legible stamp, it is very difficult to determine intrinsic value of an object.
– Alexander
27 mins ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
Not an easy system.
Coins can be minted with basic technology. Rings can be easily made too, but putting any distinguishing marks on a ring is technologically more difficult (Signet rings). You can have plain rings, but then anyone can make rings, and they would no longer have a face value.
Engraving would work for high value rings, the ones that worth more than their weight in gold.
P.S. This answer assumes that the ring must be wearable and not just a "topological ring" like pierced coin.
answered 1 hour ago
Alexander
17.3k42969
But "face value" is a rather abstract concept, and really doesn't work if the populace is used to currency that's actual precious metals. They'll develop various ways of telling older, more pure coinage from the adulterated ones the new Emperor just introduced.
– jamesqf
1 hour ago
yes, i meant it as a wearable ring... now that ive read some thoughts on it, i really need to think the whole monetary system through again... Thankyou for the answer!
– Uncertainty
1 hour ago
@jamesqf having a limited set of instruments with face value is infinitely better than having no face value at all. Without face value, one would have to always use scales and have suspicion about composition of a ring.
– Alexander
1 hour ago
@Alexander: Coins with intrinsic value did not have "face values" (that is, inscriptions saying so many units) until very very recently. Greek coins, Roman coins, medieval coins, Renaissance coins did not carry such inscriptions. Everybody was supposed to know the sizes, weights and engravings of coins in common circulation.
– AlexP
32 mins ago
@AlexP so, the face value of old coins was "1". My point is that without a legible stamp, it is very difficult to determine intrinsic value of an object.
– Alexander
27 mins ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
up vote
0
down vote
Not an easy system.
Coins can be minted with basic technology. Rings can be easily made too, but putting any distinguishing marks on a ring is technologically more difficult (Signet rings). You can have plain rings, but then anyone can make rings, and they would no longer have a face value.
Engraving would work for high value rings, the ones that worth more than their weight in gold.
P.S. This answer assumes that the ring must be wearable and not just a "topological ring" like pierced coin.
answered 1 hour ago
Alexander
17.3k42969
Not an easy system.
Coins can be minted with basic technology. Rings can be easily made too, but putting any distinguishing marks on a ring is technologically more difficult (Signet rings). You can have plain rings, but then anyone can make rings, and they would no longer have a face value.
Engraving would work for high value rings, the ones that worth more than their weight in gold.
P.S. This answer assumes that the ring must be wearable and not just a "topological ring" like pierced coin.
answered 1 hour ago
Alexander
17.3k42969
edited 1 hour ago
answered 1 hour ago
Alexander
17.3k42969
answered 1 hour ago
Alexander
17.3k42969
answered 1 hour ago
Alexander
17.3k42969
17.3k42969
But "face value" is a rather abstract concept, and really doesn't work if the populace is used to currency that's actual precious metals. They'll develop various ways of telling older, more pure coinage from the adulterated ones the new Emperor just introduced.
– jamesqf
1 hour ago
yes, i meant it as a wearable ring... now that ive read some thoughts on it, i really need to think the whole monetary system through again... Thankyou for the answer!
– Uncertainty
1 hour ago
@jamesqf having a limited set of instruments with face value is infinitely better than having no face value at all. Without face value, one would have to always use scales and have suspicion about composition of a ring.
– Alexander
1 hour ago
@Alexander: Coins with intrinsic value did not have "face values" (that is, inscriptions saying so many units) until very very recently. Greek coins, Roman coins, medieval coins, Renaissance coins did not carry such inscriptions. Everybody was supposed to know the sizes, weights and engravings of coins in common circulation.
– AlexP
32 mins ago
@AlexP so, the face value of old coins was "1". My point is that without a legible stamp, it is very difficult to determine intrinsic value of an object.
– Alexander
27 mins ago
add a comment |Â
But "face value" is a rather abstract concept, and really doesn't work if the populace is used to currency that's actual precious metals. They'll develop various ways of telling older, more pure coinage from the adulterated ones the new Emperor just introduced.
– jamesqf
1 hour ago
yes, i meant it as a wearable ring... now that ive read some thoughts on it, i really need to think the whole monetary system through again... Thankyou for the answer!
– Uncertainty
1 hour ago
@jamesqf having a limited set of instruments with face value is infinitely better than having no face value at all. Without face value, one would have to always use scales and have suspicion about composition of a ring.
– Alexander
1 hour ago
@Alexander: Coins with intrinsic value did not have "face values" (that is, inscriptions saying so many units) until very very recently. Greek coins, Roman coins, medieval coins, Renaissance coins did not carry such inscriptions. Everybody was supposed to know the sizes, weights and engravings of coins in common circulation.
– AlexP
32 mins ago
@AlexP so, the face value of old coins was "1". My point is that without a legible stamp, it is very difficult to determine intrinsic value of an object.
– Alexander
27 mins ago
But "face value" is a rather abstract concept, and really doesn't work if the populace is used to currency that's actual precious metals. They'll develop various ways of telling older, more pure coinage from the adulterated ones the new Emperor just introduced.
– jamesqf
1 hour ago
But "face value" is a rather abstract concept, and really doesn't work if the populace is used to currency that's actual precious metals. They'll develop various ways of telling older, more pure coinage from the adulterated ones the new Emperor just introduced.
– jamesqf
1 hour ago
yes, i meant it as a wearable ring... now that ive read some thoughts on it, i really need to think the whole monetary system through again... Thankyou for the answer!
– Uncertainty
1 hour ago
yes, i meant it as a wearable ring... now that ive read some thoughts on it, i really need to think the whole monetary system through again... Thankyou for the answer!
– Uncertainty
1 hour ago
@jamesqf having a limited set of instruments with face value is infinitely better than having no face value at all. Without face value, one would have to always use scales and have suspicion about composition of a ring.
– Alexander
1 hour ago
@jamesqf having a limited set of instruments with face value is infinitely better than having no face value at all. Without face value, one would have to always use scales and have suspicion about composition of a ring.
– Alexander
1 hour ago
@Alexander: Coins with intrinsic value did not have "face values" (that is, inscriptions saying so many units) until very very recently. Greek coins, Roman coins, medieval coins, Renaissance coins did not carry such inscriptions. Everybody was supposed to know the sizes, weights and engravings of coins in common circulation.
– AlexP
32 mins ago
@Alexander: Coins with intrinsic value did not have "face values" (that is, inscriptions saying so many units) until very very recently. Greek coins, Roman coins, medieval coins, Renaissance coins did not carry such inscriptions. Everybody was supposed to know the sizes, weights and engravings of coins in common circulation.
– AlexP
32 mins ago
@AlexP so, the face value of old coins was "1". My point is that without a legible stamp, it is very difficult to determine intrinsic value of an object.
– Alexander
27 mins ago
@AlexP so, the face value of old coins was "1". My point is that without a legible stamp, it is very difficult to determine intrinsic value of an object.
– Alexander
27 mins ago
add a comment |Â
Uncertainty is a new contributor. Be nice, and check out our Code of Conduct.
Uncertainty is a new contributor. Be nice, and check out our Code of Conduct.
Uncertainty is a new contributor. Be nice, and check out our Code of Conduct.
Uncertainty is a new contributor. Be nice, and check out our Code of Conduct.
Sign up or log in
StackExchange.ready(function ()
StackExchange.helpers.onClickDraftSave('#login-link');
);
Sign up using Google
Sign up using Facebook
Sign up using Email and Password
Post as a guest
StackExchange.ready(
function ()
StackExchange.openid.initPostLogin('.new-post-login', 'https%3a%2f%2fworldbuilding.stackexchange.com%2fquestions%2f127797%2frings-as-a-monetary-system%23new-answer', 'question_page');
);
Post as a guest
Sign up or log in
StackExchange.ready(function ()
StackExchange.helpers.onClickDraftSave('#login-link');
);
Sign up using Google
Sign up using Facebook
Sign up using Email and Password
Post as a guest
Sign up or log in
StackExchange.ready(function ()
StackExchange.helpers.onClickDraftSave('#login-link');
);
Sign up using Google
Sign up using Facebook
Sign up using Email and Password
Post as a guest
Sign up or log in
StackExchange.ready(function ()
StackExchange.helpers.onClickDraftSave('#login-link');
);
Sign up using Google
Sign up using Facebook
Sign up using Email and Password
Sign up using Google
Sign up using Facebook
Sign up using Email and Password
2
Sonic the Hedgehog. Boom.
– user45266
2 hours ago
2
@user45266 The rings were just a means to an end. The real end was the Chaos emeralds.
– Michael Kjörling♦
1 hour ago
@MichaelKjörling The emeralds are just a status symbol being purchased with the rings you worked for.
– Frostfyre
1 min ago