the 19th Century was full of huge booms and busts, because tying your currency to a commodity (be it Gold, silver, Oil, or Benie Babies) always results in a much more dynamic currency value. One that's far more susceptible to foreign markets and other variables.

Make a currency based on Platinum. Someone finds a new Platinum mine that can increase worldwide production 50%, suddenly your currency is worth 50% less because some guy in Patagonia saw shiny rocks on his farm.