GOLD DUST AS CURRENCY

From "Rand McNally Guide to Alaska and Yukon," reporting on a trip down the Yukon River (1922).

"We soon pass the mouth of the Koyukuk River. Steamers of light draft take supplies to the far distant placer camp which is in the Arctic Circle. This has been known as theKoyukuk country and has been a good producer. In fact, it has always been a self-sustaining camp, no money from the outside being needed in its development, taking at all timesenough gold dust out to run itself. Very little if any outside money or "Cheechako Money" as silver, gold, or paper is called, being used in the camp. Gold dust is the commonmedium of exchange."

Dick adds:

To read the complete articles, see:
cheechako (https://www.wordnik.com/words/cheechako)
Cheechako money (http://www.skagwaystories.org/2011/08/09/cheechako-money/)