What characteristic of cash ensures it can be consistently used over time?

The characteristic of cash that ensures it can be consistently used over time is durability. This trait means that cash must be able to withstand physical wear and tear, allowing it to remain in circulation without becoming unusable. Currency, whether in the form of paper notes or coins, is designed to be robust enough to endure handling by many individuals and through various transactions. If cash were not durable, it would quickly degrade, making it impractical for ongoing use in everyday transactions.

Durability supports the foundational role of money as a medium of exchange, unit of account, and store of value over time, which is vital for the stability of any economy. Coins, for instance, are minted from materials that resist corrosion, and paper money is printed on special fibers that enhance its longevity, ensuring that cash can serve its purpose effectively for extended periods.