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In the world of prepping, the economic collapse in Venezuela is a cautionary tale that reminds us of the need to be prepared for the worst. The ongoing crisis that began in the early 2010s has led to widespread shortages of food, medicine, and other essentials, driving many Venezuelans to adopt unconventional means of survival. This article will explore the resourcefulness of the Venezuelan people during this tumultuous time, focusing on their use of gold and silver for bartering.

Understanding the Economic Collapse

Before delving into the specifics, it’s crucial to understand the root causes of Venezuela’s economic collapse. The country’s economic decline began with the drop in oil prices in the early 2010s, which led to a decrease in government revenue. Additionally, the socialist policies implemented by the late President Hugo Chávez and his successor, Nicolás Maduro, exacerbated the situation, causing hyperinflation, currency devaluation, and a devastating scarcity of goods.

The Art of Bartering with Gold and Silver

As the Bolivar – Venezuela’s national currency – lost its value, people had to resort to other means of trade to acquire essential goods. The use of precious metals like gold and silver became increasingly popular, as they retain their value despite economic turmoil. It’s important to note that this method of bartering wasn’t only for the wealthy; even small quantities of these metals could make a significant difference in survival.

Venezuelans used gold and silver to barter in various ways during the economic collapse. Gold and silver served as a stable currency when hyperinflation rendered the Bolivar virtually worthless. Many people started using gold and silver coins or jewelry to purchase goods and services, even for everyday transactions.

The scarcity of food and other essentials led people to barter their gold and silver for these items. A small piece of gold or silver could be exchanged for several pounds of rice, flour, or other staple foods, allowing families to feed themselves during the crisis.

Due to the shortage of medical supplies, people with chronic illnesses were forced to trade their precious metals for life-saving medications. This highlights the importance of stocking up on necessary medications and medical supplies as part of your prepping plan.

As the economic situation worsened, many Venezuelans turned to informal gold and silver mining to sustain themselves. These individuals would then use their findings to barter for essential goods, ensuring their families’ survival.

With the country in chaos, many people sought refuge in neighboring countries like Colombia and Brazil. Gold and silver, being universally recognized, provided a way for these individuals to pay for transportation or even bribe their way across the border.

Lessons for Preppers

The Venezuelan economic collapse offers several lessons for preppers. Diversifying your wealth is essential, as precious metals like gold and silver can provide a valuable hedge against currency devaluation and hyperinflation. Having a well-stocked pantry and medical supplies can make a significant difference in a crisis. Be prepared to barter these items if necessary, as they may become scarce during an economic collapse.

Establishing a community of like-minded individuals can prove invaluable in times of crisis. Develop relationships with those who have skills, goods, or resources that you may need, and be prepared to offer your own skills or resources in return. This will create a reliable support system during difficult times.

Develop skills that can help you survive in a crisis, such as gardening, hunting, fishing, and foraging. These abilities will not only allow you to be more self-sufficient but also make you a valuable bartering partner.

Be prepared to adapt your survival strategies as circumstances change. The Venezuelan people had to quickly adapt to the economic collapse by finding alternative means of trade and survival, such as using gold and silver for bartering.

In times of crisis, the security of your family, resources, and precious metals should be a top priority. Invest in security measures such as locks, safes, and alarm systems to protect your home, as well as a concealed carry permit and self-defense training to protect yourself and your loved ones.

As the economic collapse in Venezuela demonstrated, precious metals like gold and silver can play a vital role in survival during times of financial turmoil. They retain their value and can be used for bartering when fiat currencies become worthless. Now, let’s explore the best types of gold and silver to invest in to prepare for an economic collapse, providing guidance to preppers looking to safeguard their wealth and ensure their family’s well-being during uncertain times.

Understanding Gold and Silver Investments

When investing in gold and silver, it’s crucial to understand the various forms available and their unique advantages. The primary forms of gold and silver investments include bullion, coins, rounds, and bars. Additionally, one should be aware of factors such as purity, weight, and market premiums when making investment decisions.

1. Gold and Silver Bullion Coins

Bullion coins are a popular choice for preppers due to their government-backed weight and purity. These coins are minted by national mints and are legal tender in their country of origin. Some of the most popular gold and silver bullion coins include:

• American Gold and Silver Eagles: Minted by the United States Mint, these coins are widely recognized and accepted for their weight, purity, and design.
• Canadian Gold and Silver Maple Leafs: Produced by the Royal Canadian Mint, these coins are known for their high purity and iconic maple leaf design.
• South African Gold Krugerrands: As one of the world’s first gold bullion coins, the Krugerrand is renowned for its durability and recognizable design.

2. Gold and Silver Rounds

Rounds are similar to coins in shape and appearance but are not legal tender. They are minted by private mints and generally carry a lower premium compared to bullion coins. This makes rounds a more cost-effective option for preppers looking to invest in precious metals.

3. Gold and Silver Bars

Bars are another popular choice for preppers, as they offer a larger weight and lower premium compared to coins and rounds. Bars are available in various sizes, from small 1-ounce bars to larger 100-ounce bars, allowing for flexibility in investment choices. Preppers should consider smaller bars for easier divisibility during bartering situations.

4. Purity and Weight

When investing in gold and silver, it’s important to consider the metal’s purity, which is measured in karats for gold and fineness for silver. For gold, 24-karat (99.99% pure) is the highest level of purity, while 22-karat (91.67% pure) is also common. For silver, .999 or .9999 fine silver is typically preferred.

Weight is another essential factor, as it directly impacts the value of your investment. Preppers should consider investing in various weights to facilitate easier bartering during an economic collapse.

5. Market Premiums

Market premiums refer to the additional cost above the metal’s spot price, which includes minting, distribution, and dealer fees. When investing in gold and silver, preppers should be mindful of market premiums to ensure they are getting the best value for their investment.

Mercury Dimes

When preparing for an economic collapse, diversifying your investments in precious metals is a crucial step. While gold and silver often take the spotlight, another valuable option for preppers is investing in Mercury dimes. These small silver coins offer several unique benefits that make them an attractive choice for those seeking to protect their wealth and ensure their family’s well-being during uncertain times.

Understanding Mercury Dimes

Mercury dimes, officially known as Winged Liberty Head dimes, were minted in the United States between 1916 and 1945. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, the coin features a depiction of Lady Liberty wearing a winged cap, which was often mistaken for the Roman god Mercury, hence the nickname. These dimes are composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, with a total silver content of approximately 0.07234 troy ounces per coin (source: U.S. Mint).

Benefits of Investing in Mercury Dimes

One of the key benefits of Mercury dimes is their smaller denominations for bartering. Mercury dimes offer a smaller denomination of silver, making them an ideal choice for bartering during an economic collapse. Their size allows for easier divisibility and more precise transactions, ensuring you don’t overpay for goods or services.

Mercury dimes are also widely recognizable. As a widely recognized and circulated coin, Mercury dimes are easily identifiable and accepted by most people. This makes them a reliable option for bartering in a crisis, as their value is unlikely to be questioned.

Furthermore, Mercury dimes are both affordable and accessible. They are relatively affordable compared to larger silver coins and bars, making them an attractive option for preppers on a budget. Additionally, these dimes can often be found in coin shops, online marketplaces, and even in circulation, providing easy access for investors.

Lastly, Mercury dimes possess historical value as a piece of American history. While this may not be a primary concern for preppers, it’s worth noting that the historical value could potentially increase the coin’s worth in certain situations.

Investing in Mercury Dimes: Tips for Preppers

Before investing in Mercury dimes, evaluate your budget and determine how much you can allocate toward precious metals. Diversifying your investments across various forms of gold and silver, including Mercury dimes, can help protect your wealth and ensure your family’s well-being during an economic collapse.

When purchasing Mercury dimes, consider their condition and premium. While the silver content is the most important factor for preppers, coins in better condition may carry a higher premium. Be sure to shop around and compare prices from various sources to ensure you’re getting the best value for your investment.

Conclusion

The economic collapse in Venezuela serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness. By learning from the resourcefulness of the Venezuelan people, preppers can better equip themselves for future crises. The use of gold and silver for bartering during the collapse highlights the need to diversify your wealth and invest in tangible assets that retain their value in the face of economic turmoil. As a prepper, it’s essential to be ready to adapt, stockpile essentials, develop survival skills, and build a reliable bartering network to ensure your family’s well-being during challenging times.

Here are some of my favorite prepping gear

Thank you for investing your time in this article, and I sincerely hope it has provided valuable insights to strengthen your survival preparedness. As a survivalist, I make use of a variety of tools and gear, many of which have proven to be indispensable in my journey. Here, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite survival gear, which I believe you will find beneficial as well.

These are affiliate links, meaning if you decide to use any of them, I’ll earn a commission at no additional cost to you. However, I assure you that these recommendations come from personal experience – these are the exact tools I trust, use, and confidently recommend to everyone, including my own family.

1. Long-Term Food Storage: ‘My Patriot Supply‘ is my top choice for emergency food supplies. Their selection caters to long-term storage needs, ensuring you’re always prepared.
2. Water Filter: Clean, safe drinking water is a priority in any situation. This water filter has served me well, and I trust it will for you too.
3. Versatile Cooking Solution: The Zoom Versa Cook Stove is a reliable, versatile cooking solution perfect for outdoor and survival scenarios.

I’ve compiled an extensive, frequently updated list of my top survival gear recommendations for your convenience. Equip yourself with the best and latest gear here.

Remember, true survival isn’t merely about making it through – it’s about effectively navigating and thriving in challenging circumstances. Equip yourself well, stay informed, and always be prepared.

As a preppers we must always be vigilant and prepared for potential threats that could disrupt the status quo and drastically change the way we live. One possible scenario that has gained a lot of attention and one that is looking inevitable is a full-blown war between the United States and NATO against China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and other supporting countries.

In this situation, countries like Saudi Arabia might side with the latter due to economic and political reasons, causing them to completely abandon the U.S. dollar as the world reserve currency and leading to its collapse. Additionally, China, Russia, and Saudi Arabia could cut off most or all imports to the U.S. and NATO countries. In this article, we’ll explore what this hypothetical situation would look like and how it would affect the American people.

The exact cause of such a large-scale conflict is difficult to pinpoint, but potential triggers could include territorial disputes in the South China Sea, escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, or cyber-attacks from North Korea. The ensuing conflict would likely involve both conventional and unconventional warfare, with cyber-attacks, trade embargoes, and economic sanctions being used to weaken the enemy’s infrastructure and economy. Proxy wars, where countries indirectly support allies in various regional conflicts, would become more common.

The abandonment of the U.S. dollar as the world reserve currency would cause its value to plummet, leading to a massive loss of confidence in the dollar and the crashing of global markets. This would result in hyperinflation, making it difficult for Americans to purchase essential goods and services. The economy would enter a deep recession, leading to high unemployment rates and widespread poverty.

The import crisis brought on by China, Russia, and Saudi Arabia cutting off most or all imports to the U.S. and NATO countries would exacerbate the economic crisis. The United States would struggle to obtain essential goods such as electronics, clothing, and even food. With imports severely limited, the U.S. would have to rely on its domestic production to meet the needs of its population. However, ramping up production quickly enough to meet demand would be a significant challenge.

Shortages of essential goods would lead to rationing and long lines at stores. Items like gasoline, food, and medical supplies would become scarce and prohibitively expensive. As the economy collapses and resources become scarce, civil unrest would likely erupt. Protests, riots, and looting could become commonplace as people struggle to survive. In response to the civil unrest, the government might declare martial law, leading to an erosion of civil liberties and increased surveillance.

To prepare for such a crisis, preppers should focus on stockpiling essential goods such as non-perishable food, water, medical supplies, and fuel. Developing self-sufficiency skills, such as gardening, raising livestock, and learning basic home repairs, would be crucial to surviving the crisis. Diversifying one’s assets by investing in precious metals, cryptocurrencies, and other non-dollar-based commodities would provide some financial stability during the currency collapse.

Here’s a list of food and gear to consider:

Food Items:

1. Canned goods: Vegetables, fruits, meats, fish, and soups provide a variety of nutrients and have a long shelf life.
2. Dry goods: Rice, pasta, beans, lentils, and oats are high in calories, easy to store, and have a long shelf life.
3. Ready-to-eat meals: Freeze-dried meals or MREs (Meals, Ready-to-Eat) can be easily prepared and have a long shelf life.
4. Powdered milk: A good source of calcium and protein with a long shelf life.
5. Dehydrated fruits and vegetables: Lightweight, nutrient-dense, and long-lasting.
6. Nuts and seeds: High in protein, healthy fats, and calories, with a long shelf life.
7. Peanut butter: A calorie-dense and long-lasting source of protein.
8. Jerky: A good source of protein that does not require refrigeration.
9. Protein bars and energy bars: Compact, nutrient-dense, and long-lasting.
10. Honey: A natural sweetener that does not spoil.
11. Salt, sugar, and spices: Useful for seasoning and preserving food.
12. Coffee and tea: Long-lasting sources of caffeine and comfort.
13. Powdered drink mixes: Electrolyte replacements and flavor enhancers for water.
14. Vitamins and supplements: To help maintain proper nutrition during a crisis.

Gear:

1. Water storage containers: Food-grade containers for storing and transporting water.
2. Water purification methods: Water filters, purification tablets, or a water distiller.
3. Cooking equipment: Portable stoves, fuel, pots, pans, and utensils.
4. Food storage containers: Airtight containers to keep food fresh and protected from pests.
5. Manual can opener: Essential for opening canned goods without electricity.
6. First aid kit: Equipped with bandages, gauze, antiseptic, pain relievers, and essential medications.
7. Flashlights and headlamps: Reliable sources of light with extra batteries.
8. Portable solar charger: To charge electronic devices without grid power.
9. Multi-tool or Swiss Army knife: A versatile tool for various tasks.
10. Fire-starting equipment: Waterproof matches, lighters, or a fire starter.
11. Blankets and sleeping bags: For warmth and comfort during cold nights.
12. Tents or tarps: For shelter in case of displacement.
13. Personal hygiene items: Toilet paper, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and feminine hygiene products.
14. Heavy-duty trash bags: Useful for waste disposal, makeshift shelter, or waterproofing.
15. Clothing and footwear: Durable clothing for all weather conditions and sturdy boots.
16. Radio: Battery-powered or hand-crank radio for receiving emergency information.
17. Communication devices: Walkie-talkies, satellite phones, or ham radios for staying connected with others.
18. Self-defense items: Firearms, ammunition, or pepper spray for personal protection.
19. Cash and important documents: Keep a stash of cash and copies of vital documents in a waterproof container.
20. Maps and compass: For navigation and orientation without relying on electronic devices.

Remember that each individual and family’s needs may vary, so consider your specific situation when building your stockpile. It’s also essential to regularly check and rotate your supplies to ensure that they remain fresh and usable.

Forming strong bonds with neighbors and like-minded individuals would be essential in creating a support network during times of crisis. Pooling resources and skills would increase the chances of survival for everyone involved. With the potential for civil unrest and violence, it’s crucial to have a plan for personal and home security. This could include firearms training, self-defense classes, or even organizing a neighborhood watch.

Relying on the power grid may not be feasible during a crisis. Investing in alternative energy sources such as solar panels, wind turbines, or generators would provide a level of energy independence. Staying informed and maintaining communication with the outside world would be critical. Investing in devices like shortwave radios, satellite phones, or even ham radios would ensure access to vital information and the ability to communicate with others.

With the potential for gasoline shortages, having alternative modes of transportation would be beneficial. Bicycles, or even horses could prove invaluable in a crisis. Learning basic first aid skills and stockpiling necessary medications and medical supplies would help mitigate the impact of the healthcare system’s potential collapse.

The psychological toll of such a crisis cannot be underestimated. Developing coping mechanisms and practicing stress-relief techniques would be essential for maintaining mental and emotional well-being during these challenging times.

In conclusion, while the scenario outlined in this article is hypothetical, however it is becoming increasingly likely, it serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness. As a prepper understanding the potential consequences of a global conflict and the collapse of the U.S. dollar is essential for making informed decisions about how to best prepare for the future.

By focusing on stockpiling essential goods, developing self-sufficiency skills, and building strong communities, preppers can increase our chances of not only surviving but also thriving during times of crisis.

It’s important to remember that preparedness is not about living in fear, but rather about taking control of one’s own safety and well-being. By planning ahead and taking proactive measures, individuals and communities can build resilience and adapt to the challenges that may arise in an uncertain world. Through cooperation, resourcefulness, and a commitment to self-sufficiency, preppers can face whatever the future may hold with confidence and determination.

Here are some of my favorite prepping gear

Thank you for investing your time in this article, and I sincerely hope it has provided valuable insights to strengthen your survival preparedness. As a survivalist, I make use of a variety of tools and gear, many of which have proven to be indispensable in my journey. Here, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite survival gear, which I believe you will find beneficial as well.

These are affiliate links, meaning if you decide to use any of them, I’ll earn a commission at no additional cost to you. However, I assure you that these recommendations come from personal experience – these are the exact tools I trust, use, and confidently recommend to everyone, including my own family.

1. Long-Term Food Storage: ‘My Patriot Supply‘ is my top choice for emergency food supplies. Their selection caters to long-term storage needs, ensuring you’re always prepared.
2. Water Filter: Clean, safe drinking water is a priority in any situation. This water filter has served me well, and I trust it will for you too.
3. Versatile Cooking Solution: The Zoom Versa Cook Stove is a reliable, versatile cooking solution perfect for outdoor and survival scenarios.

I’ve compiled an extensive, frequently updated list of my top survival gear recommendations for your convenience. Equip yourself with the best and latest gear here.

Remember, true survival isn’t merely about making it through – it’s about effectively navigating and thriving in challenging circumstances. Equip yourself well, stay informed, and always be prepared.