correct, the "thing" has intrinsic properties and that is a reality. How one values that property depends on the individual. copper is conductive but gold is more conductive, hence if is conductivity you are looking for gold is better than copper. the theoretical characteristics of money for exemple are durability, portability, divisibility, uniformity, limited supply, and acceptability. The more you have of each the better the money. Acceptability for example is very subjective and geographically dependant. even money by definition has no intrinsic value, gold and bitcoin included. I do personally value both, so if you want to give me some I won't say no.