Final answer:
The Currency Act of 1764 prevented the colonies from printing their own money, putting them at an economic disadvantage in trade with British merchants.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Currency Act of 1764, passed by the British Parliament, expanded on previous legislation and prevented the colonies from printing their own money. This act specified that no paper bills or bills of credit could be created or issued as legal tender for bargains, contracts, debts, dues, or demands in any of the colonies. This move put the colonists at an economic disadvantage in their trade relations with British merchants.