The Strangest Things People Used as Money (Before Cash Existed)

Salt (a.k.a. White Gold)

Salt wasn’t just a kitchen staple in the ancient world—it was wealth. Roman soldiers sometimes received their wages in salt, hence the origin of the word “salary.” In a world without refrigerators, salt was the only reliable way to preserve meat and other perishables. That made it crucial for survival and gave it incredible economic value.

Salt’s worth was so significant that entire cities rose and fell around salt trade routes. Wars were fought over salt mines, and monopolies were formed to control its distribution. In parts of Africa, salt slabs were even used as currency. So next time you casually pass the salt shaker at dinner, remember: you’re holding what was once a luxury item so precious, it shaped empires.

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