Why Were There 12 Pennies in a Shilling? Historical Explanation
Discover why 12 pennies made up a shilling and how Roman and Anglo-Saxon influences shaped British currency.
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There were 12 pennies in a shilling due to historical reasons rooted in the Roman monetary system. This division was part of a system adopted in Britain in the late Anglo-Saxon period, reflecting a continuation of Roman influence on European trade and economics. This system made calculations and transactions simpler at a time when numerical literacy was not widespread, facilitating an easier way to manage and understand currency.
FAQs & Answers
- Why was the British currency system based on 12 pennies to a shilling? The British currency system used 12 pennies to a shilling due to the influence of the Roman monetary system and its continuation during the Anglo-Saxon period, simplifying calculations when numerical literacy was less common.
- How did the Roman monetary system influence British currency? The Roman monetary system introduced divisions that made trade and calculations simpler, which were adopted and adapted by British systems during the Anglo-Saxon era, including the use of 12 pennies per shilling.
- What was the significance of the Anglo-Saxon period on British money? During the late Anglo-Saxon period, Britain adopted and maintained currency practices influenced by Roman traditions, which shaped the structure of pre-decimal currency such as the shilling and penny.