Final answer:
The rumor pertains to British agents attempting to sabotage the American economy during the Revolution by buying up Connecticut currency, likely referring to Continental currency, to create inflation and economic instability.
Step-by-step explanation:
The rumor that British agents were buying up Connecticut currency in order to sabotage the American economy dates back to the time of the American Revolution. There were allegations that the British were trying to undermine the fledgling United States by causing economic instability, which would be exacerbated by manipulating the value of the currency. Specifically, British agents were suspected of acquiring large amounts of Continental currency (the currency issued by the Continental Congress) to devalue it and cause inflation, thereby sapping the economic strength of the American colonies.