akuperma: With all due respect, there are halachic ramifications as per what is “halachicly” considered “money”, even vs. “Shave Kesef” (such as the actual value of a Perutah, or being Mekadesh an Isha with an FRN, or Pidyon of Ma’aser Shaini).
I’m not dealing with the Rambam (which I believe I have sufficently in my response to PBA. I also believe (IIRC) that the Gaon in Yorah Dayah (246.9) makes your point regarding a wealthy society.
Besides, I believe it is Muchrach like you, as the Rambam did not deal with Tuition payments (re: the Ramabam in Talmud Torah 1:14).