Fiat currency is the widely accepted form of money that has value primarily because a government declares it as legal tender. It lacks intrinsic value and relies on the faith and confidence of the people using it. Three key characteristics distinguish fiat currency:

1. Legal Tender: Fiat currency is recognized as official legal tender by the government that issues it. This means that it must be accepted as a form of payment for debts and transactions within the country, and refusal to accept it is typically not permissible.

2. No Intrinsic Value: Unlike commodity money (like gold or silver) which has inherent value due to its material properties, fiat currency has no intrinsic value. Its worth is derived solely from the trust people place in the issuing government and the stability of the economy.

3. Centralized Control: The issuance and regulation of fiat currency are controlled by the central authority, usually the government and its designated agencies (like central banks). This allows the government to manage the money supply, control inflation, and implement monetary policy.

These characteristics underscore the importance of public confidence and governmental stability in maintaining the value and usefulness of fiat currency. The success of a fiat currency hinges on the ability of the issuing authority to maintain economic stability and uphold people's belief in the currency's value, as its worth is not backed by physical assets but rather by the faith of the populace and the stability of the nation's economy.