How Cheese Was Used as Currency

When we think of currency today, we think of coins, paper bills, or digital transactions. But in centuries past, people often traded with goods that held real, tangible value. And believe it or not—cheese was one of them.

A Valuable Commodity

Cheese has long been a staple food in agrarian societies. Made from milk (an abundant resource for those with livestock) and preserved for long-term storage, cheese offered a portable, durable, and nutritious food source. That combination of longevity and usefulness made it more than just a food—it became a form of wealth.

In medieval Europe, particularly in regions like Switzerland, Italy, and parts of France, cheese played a major role in the rural economy. Shepherds and farmers used wheels of aged cheese to pay taxes, settle debts, or trade for goods. Some local governments even kept official records of cheese-based transactions, recognizing it as legal tender in certain circumstances.

Paying Rent in Parmesan

In 14th-century Italy, Parmesan cheese was so highly prized that landlords accepted it as rent. Aged for years and crafted under precise standards, Parmesan (Parmigiano-Reggiano) was a symbol of both culinary excellence and economic stability. A large, properly aged wheel was equivalent to a significant sum of money.

Records from monasteries show cheese being used to pay workers and purchase services. In one case, a 16th-century Italian notary documented a dowry that included not only livestock and land—but also a specified number of cheese wheels.

Cheese as Collateral

Cheese wasn't just a form of payment—it could also be used as collateral. In parts of rural France and Switzerland, banks and merchants accepted cheese (especially aged varieties) as a pledge against loans. The cheese would be stored in secured cellars until the debt was repaid. This worked because aged cheese increased in value over time, making it a smart form of “cheesy” investment.

The Legacy of Dairy Money

While cheese no longer fills our wallets, its legacy as a trade item lives on. Many modern artisan cheesemakers still follow age-old techniques that originated in economies where cheese was more than food—it was a means of survival and exchange.

Today, at Simply Cheese, we’re inspired by the rich history of cheese in every block we ship. And while we wouldn’t recommend skipping your bank deposit in favor of cheddar coins, it’s fun to remember that this humble food once stood alongside gold and silver as a symbol of real value.