So, in theory, you could exchange the notes for gold. However, most governments will no longer give gold in exchange. The first coins were in use in Lydia, Turkey, over 2700 years ago. There were 240 pence in a pound until 1971. Bank notes were first used by the Chinese in the 11th century.
Tariffs are taxes on imported goods.
In the European Union it is intended that there will be no tariffs on goods transferred between member countries.