Regional currencies like the Urstromtaler have been springing up around Germany. Advocates hope that the alternate currencies will help to stimulate sagging local economies, support small businesses and encourage a sense of community.

BBC: Like any other city in Germany, the normal currency here is the euro. But bizarrely, they also have another currency in circulation: the Urstromtaler.

Before you doubt its existence, it is not “Monopoly” money – it is very real. At a jewellery shop in the city centre, Gerfried Kliems explained how people use the regional currency.

Read more

Your support matters…

Independent journalism is under threat and overshadowed by heavily funded mainstream media.

You can help level the playing field. Become a member.

Your tax-deductible contribution keeps us digging beneath the headlines to give you thought-provoking, investigative reporting and analysis that unearths what's really happening- without compromise.

Give today to support our courageous, independent journalists.

SUPPORT TRUTHDIG