If you're concerned about the economy, buy silver & gold, but don't hoard cash. The fed just printed almost 800 million $50 bills because people are hoarding cash, which devalues that cash. Buying gold & silver theoretically (as long as the markets aren't being manipulated) increases their value. Don't buy certificates. Get actual metals that you can touch. Even 90% coins (pre 1965) will be valuable. $1.40 face value 90% coins are equal to one troy oz silver. Pre oct 1982 copper pennies are worth 2-3 cents each. You have to weigh the 1982 pennies to know if they are copper or not. Some states have issued goldbacks, but they have inflated values, just like fiat currency. If you invest in them, expect to pay about double the actual gold content.