In 1885, a pair of Levis pants cost $1.80, in gold.
In 1962 a pair of Levis cost $2.80, in silver.
Today a pair of Levis cost around $50.00, in printed paper money, backed by nothing but the “faith and credit of the USA.”
15 to 20 bucks at Walmart...bought some recently....not 50 dollars....but I think you make a valid point!