A Conversation for Old English Money
Conversion
Ausnahmsweise, wie üblich (Consistently inconsistent) Started conversation Jan 15, 2001
Brings back memories.
How about the comversion to the decimal system? 240 pennies (20 sh * 12d) became 100. The half crown became 12.5 new pence, a shilling, 5P. Complicated though it may sound, it went very smoothly.
I read (in the Guide I think) that "Bob's your uncle" refers to the 1902 prime minister, Robert Salisbury, passing on the post to his nephew?
Conversion
Wand'rin star Posted Jan 16, 2001
You're absolutely right. There doesn't seem to be any reason why a bob was so-called.
I can remember pre-decimalisation when for a short period an American cent was worth an English penny.(ie the pound was worth $2.40) Because I've spent most of my life since 1971 outside England, I still sometimes think in old money - much to the amusement of my "children"
Conversion
Ausnahmsweise, wie üblich (Consistently inconsistent) Posted Jan 16, 2001
I too left England in the early 70s. I remember a pub in North Wales that continued to use prices in old money long after the transition. They gave you new coins but would still say "here's your 3sh change". They must have rounded up after the old pennies were no longer in circulation
Key: Complain about this post
Conversion
More Conversations for Old English Money
Write an Entry
"The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy is a wholly remarkable book. It has been compiled and recompiled many times and under many different editorships. It contains contributions from countless numbers of travellers and researchers."