However, we can look at developments that flourished in the wake of coinage, making the transition from bartering to monetary exchange smoother:
* Increased trade: Coined money made trade easier and more efficient, leading to a significant increase in commercial activity across the ancient world. This spurred economic growth and the development of new goods and services.
* Growth of cities: The rise of trade and commerce led to a growth in urban centers, as people congregated to buy and sell goods. This urbanization further fueled the economy and led to the development of new infrastructure, like roads, marketplaces, and public works.
* Development of accounting: The use of coinage made it easier to track transactions and develop accounting systems. This allowed for more sophisticated financial management and the emergence of banking.
* Standardization of weights and measures: The need for consistent monetary units led to the standardization of weights and measures, facilitating fair exchange across different regions.
* Expansion of empires: Coinage enabled empires to more effectively manage their resources, finance armies, and build infrastructure.
While these developments weren't directly *caused* by the invention of coinage, they were heavily influenced by it. The Lydians' innovation laid the groundwork for a more complex and interconnected global economy.