Its an attempt to keep money within the local community, which works to help the merchants and the local citizenry. About a dozen communities have local currencies.

The idea came about during the depression and is generally favored by local government. The one caveat is that the currency cannot claim to be or be perceived to be U.S. currency. U.S. Treasury agents feel that von Nothaus and others crossed this line when they stamped coins (Liberty Dollar) instead of paper ‘money’.

The U.S. Department of Justice has charged the men with fraud and conspiracy. In a bill of indictment filed when they were arrested, the word "counterfeit" never appears.

Authorities say the coins too closely resemble actually US currency by using the dollar sign, burning torch and crowned head. Also troublesome is the inclusion on some coins of the words "Trust in God".

What I wouldn't give to be able to print my own money.