LIBERTY DOLLAR

An alternative currency created to combat inflation. Made by Bernard von NotHaus in 1998, these were backed originally by silver; later on by gold, copper, and platinum. Through von NotHaus’ National Organization for the Repeal of the Federal Reserve Act and the Internal Revenue Code (NORFED), the silver liberty dollars were spawned in a private mint in Idaho. Unlike the official US currency, these are supposed to be an inflation proof because liberty dollars are made of precious metal. But because of the similarities (in appearance) between liberty dollars and US official coins, he was arrested in 2009 on charges of intent to defraud, and found guilty of conspiracy against the Fed government in March 2011.