Cowry[0] is an even better example than gold. It predates gold coinage, and was used between 3000BC[1] all the way to the 19th century[2] as a cross-culture currency throughout the world. Its scientific name is even Monetaria moneta.

[0] http://www.conchsoc.org/interests/shell-money.php

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Money#History

[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monetaria_moneta#As_money