I do as well. I do, however, live on the Potomac so I'll have the fish option for a while.
I tried to find a book that was required reading for my econ undergraduates degree, basically the history of money.
No luck but I found some interesting sites:
History of Money from Ancient Times to the Present Day
If I recall correctly, trust and belief that "money" as issued will retain value was the first leap from barter economies, the rise of trade, monetary exchanges, etc. and also the first step away from a currency, many of which have collapsed.
Sounds simplistic, but salt, for instance, was a cornerstone to economic growth. Why trade a precious commodity for a promise - which in the end, is really all "money" is.
One of the best books you can read on the salt phenomenon:
My financial wizard Nephew gave the book to me as a gift years ago.
The future of money? I think trust in whatever the media is will be key. Once those with a tactile need for money pass, the electronic Rubicon may be crossed.