Here's my understanding, flawed as it might be...
Governments are/will be forced to use (even build) every tool imaginable for steering all mediums of exchange. They have "monetized" the kind of idiocy that never has a happy ending before crashing, then a "start-over."
"Money" in all its forms only seeks to be and serves as representation of value, not a value itself.
Be it Bitcoins or greenbacks or PMs, the owner isn't holding value unless it includes a means of preservation, transference and agreed-upon measure of worth.
Bitcoin does not fit the definition of "money" because it is ephemeral - no electrons and functioning computer net - no nothing.
Greenbacks have what superiority over Reichsmarks stacked in wheelbarrows to buy a loaf of bread? None.
Precious metals - easily preserved, doesn't evaporate, burn or depend on electricity. And because it is physical, can pass from hand to hand at whatever going rate is customary and agreed upon. One little problem though... and I'm curious to hear what folks here think...
FDR called in PM coinage and "by force of law" divested Americans of this particular medium of preservation/exchange.
What makes anyone believe this same tactic won't/can't be repeated? And if, even under "melt down" financial catastrophe, PMs are no longer "legal tender" are we talking black market? Entire segments of financial activity risking fines, confiscation, imprisonment if attempts at using PMs in exchange are made?