The economist Saifedean Ammous takes a look back at the fascinating history of money, from primitive systems of stones and shells as means of exchange to metals, coins, gold, and the modern financial system. He sheds light on the economic, social, cultural, and political benefits of sound money and proceeds to an in-depth examination of the first digital currency, bitcoin, and its role in the digital economy of the future. He argues that bitcoin is not suitable for consumer micropayments; instead, it emerges as a decentralized, politically neutral, free-market alternative to national central banks, with immense significance for individual freedom and prosperity. The bitcoin standard is an important resource for anyone who wants to better understand the digital currency that dominates the market.