Skip to content

Circulation Quote by Thomas Gresham

“When depreciated, mutilated, or debased coinage (or currency) is in concurrent circulation with money of high value in terms of precious metals, the good money automatically disappears.” quote by Thomas Gresham
Download Open image
“When depreciated, mutilated, or debased coinage (or currency) is in concurrent circulation with money of high value in terms of precious metals, the good money automatically disappears.”

Thomas Gresham

About This Quote

Source Treatise: Gresham's Law, 16th century economic writings

When lower-quality money circulates with higher-quality money, the better money disappears from the market.

In simple terms: Bad money drives out good money.

Key Takeaway

Prefer stable, high-quality currency.

Themes

economics currency inflation

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

economic historical

When to use this quote

  • banking
  • investment
  • government policy
  • daily transactions

Key Concepts

Gresham's Law monetary policy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does this law affect modern fiat currencies?
  • What safeguards can prevent loss of value?
A Different Perspective

If people hoard good money, circulation may stall.

2.6 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Thomas Gresham

Explore all 2 Thomas Gresham quotes

More Circulation quotes

Browse all 224 Circulation quotes