i've just asked chatgpt for some examples. by always , i mean it wasn't just an example of one time in history, the theme of an authority abusing monetary tust has come up many, many times

hence why we like bitcoin

Nero (54–68 CE):

One of the first Roman emperors to debase currency systematically. Reduced the silver content of the denarius from 98% to 93.5% and reduced the weight of gold aureus coins. Caracalla (198–217 CE):

Introduced the Antoninianus, a silver coin that contained less silver than the denarius but was valued higher. Accelerated the debasement of Roman currency, leading to inflation. Diocletian (284–305 CE):

Drastically reduced the silver content in coins and issued new copper-based coins. Attempted price controls to curb inflation caused by prior debasement but largely failed. Constantine the Great (306–337 CE):

Reduced the gold content of the solidus and continued debasement of silver coins. Relied heavily on monetary manipulation to fund his reign and the establishment of Constantinople. Medieval and Renaissance Monarchs Henry VIII of England (1509–1547):

Known as "Old Coppernose" because his debased silver coins exposed the copper base underneath. Reduced the silver content in coins to fund his wars and extravagant spending. Philip IV of France (1285–1314):

Frequently debased French currency to finance wars and his administration. His debasement policies contributed to economic instability and dissatisfaction. Charles IV of France (1322–1328):

Continued aggressive debasement policies to address fiscal deficits, causing public outrage and inflation. Holy Roman Emperor Charles V (1519–1556):

Debased currency across the Habsburg domains to finance wars, including campaigns against France and the Ottoman Empire. John the Good of France (1350–1364):

Drastically debased the French currency during his reign, leading to economic hardship and a loss of public trust. Islamic Rulers Al-Mahdi (Abbasid Caliph, 775–785 CE): Debased silver dirhams to address financial strains during his reign. Ottoman Empire: Several Ottoman sultans debased the akçe coin over centuries, causing economic disruptions and inflation. Modern Monarchs and Rulers Louis XIV of France (1643–1715):

Frequently altered coin weights and fineness to finance his wars, such as the War of the Spanish Succession. Frederick the Great of Prussia (1740–1786):

Debased the Prussian coinage to finance his military campaigns, particularly during the Seven Years’ War. Napoleon Bonaparte (1799–1815):

Introduced new coinage during his reign, and though he did not heavily debase currency, his wars were partially financed by manipulating money supply in occupied territories.