Monetary Paradoxes

f.

XVII.

That the very commonest peddlers and craftsmen can better distinguish between intrinsic and extrinsic value original: "bonitatem intrinsecam & extrinsecam" than the best lawyers. In this context, "intrinsic value" refers to the actual silver content of a coin, while "extrinsic value" is the face value stamped upon it by the state. The author mocks legal experts for failing to recognize the reality of currency debasement that even the simplest market-goer understands.

XVIII.

That the Scholar Magister, the Muse Musa, and the Priest Sacerdos complain about the "Type" Speciem: likely a pun on the "Speciesthaler," a high-quality silver coin; they no longer derive any happiness Felix or fruit Fructus from their great fame. This uses Latin names for coin types or common inscriptions to lament that intellectual and spiritual professions no longer provide a livelihood due to the economic crisis.

XIX.

That the best imperial thalers Reichsthaler: the standard high-quality silver coin of the Holy Roman Empire produce the very worst coinage. A reference to "Gresham's Law": high-quality silver coins were being gathered up and melted down to produce a much larger quantity of debased, low-value "bad" money.

XX.

That one finds no more usurers Zinßwucherer today, and yet most people are becoming beggars. The author suggests that the state-sanctioned debasement of currency is a far more effective "thief" than individual money-lenders.

XXI.

That it is the money changers Geldhändler who determine the value of the land and the people, and not the Princes.

XXII.

That a new Litany Litaney: a form of prayer consisting of a series of petitions must be made against evil money;

Deliver us, dear LORD God.

XXIII.

That the thieves who rob a single person are hanged, but those who make all people poor are granted privileges.

XXIV.

That Belial’s Belial: a demonic figure representing lawlessness or worthlessness palace must be built; otherwise, the money changers would have no place.

XXV.

That the world was conquered by Alexander the Great with wars, but by the minters Preger: those who stamp or "mint" coins with money.

XXVI.

That it is not necessary to argue over deeds and seals Brieff vnd Siegel; for they cannot be kept anyway. The author implies that the economic collapse has rendered legal contracts and promises worthless.