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In an extended economic model with multiple goods, grain serves as an example of commodity money. It has intrinsic value because it can be consumed, and it also fulfills the three functions of money: it acts as a medium of exchange for other goods, a store of value, and a unit of account in which prices are expressed.

Grain as an Example of Commodity Money

Despite its historical use, grain has significant drawbacks as a form of commodity money. It is perishable, meaning its quality degrades over time, and it is vulnerable to being consumed by pests. Furthermore, its bulk makes it highly impractical to transport for everyday transactions, particularly in a modern economy.

Disadvantages of Grain as Commodity Money

A small, isolated agricultural community produces three goods: corn, wool, and lumber. Currently, all trade is conducted through direct exchange (barter). The community leaders propose designating corn as the official medium for all transactions, meaning all goods will be priced and paid for in units of corn. 

Evaluate this proposal. Is this new system likely to be more efficient than the original barter system? Justify your conclusion by analyzing how corn would fulfill the essential functions of a monetary asset in this economy.

Evaluating a Commodity-Based Monetary System

In an economic system that uses a physical commodity as its currency, which statement best analyzes how grain successfully fulfills the three primary functions of money?

In an economy where grain is used as a form of commodity money, match each monetary function or characteristic to the scenario that best illustrates it.

In an economy where grain is used as money, explain how its intrinsic value (its usefulness as food) supports its role as both a medium of exchange and a store of value.

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