coin of the realm

[I]t was thought expedient by ſtatute 1 Mar. ſt. 2. c. 6. to revive ſpecies thereof; viz. 1. That if any perſon falſely forge or counterfeit any ſuch kind of coin of gold or ſilver, as is not the proper coin of this realm, … ſuch offences ſhall be deemed high treaſon.]

As trust in government declines, it becomes more and more difficult to make effective use of state power. For nonprofit and voluntary organizations, these issues do not arise. Free choice is the coin of the realm: Donors give because they choose to do so. Volunteers work of their own volition.