I found this to be very interesting and perplexing at the same time. Apparently the inmates don’t like the mackerel, so why would it be of value to them? Cigarettes as a currency substitute make perfect sense. Smokers desire them, and even if you don’t smoke they still have value because of those who do. Mackerel however is only consumed by a few freaks like myself who happen to like it. Most people find it overpowering. Myself, I’ve always eaten fresh mackerel. I’m not sure even I would like the canned version.
What inherent value does the greenback have ?
Or Gold, or ... ?