Is Gold Scarce?

Right, and that is a valid option for some players, depending on proficiencies and desire to save gold. I prefer to hold out for Great Cleavers (thank you and RIP, Fruella), since they are a significant improvement over upgradable drops. With the amount of gold available from low-hanging fruit and likely way more after Verbobonc, I get the impression that there is no reason to settle for a middle ground solution.