The term "pound sterling" reflects its literal beginnings. In the 8th century, the currency was equivalent to a , known as sterling silver. The Symbol : The familiar
The British Pound Sterling: A Legacy of Weight and Wealth The British pound sterling ( british monetary unit
sign is an ornate "L," derived from the Latin word libra , meaning scales or a unit of weight. The term "pound sterling" reflects its literal beginnings
For most of its history, the British monetary system was non-decimal, following the Roman-inspired £sd system ( librae, solidi, denarii ): the currency was equivalent to a
: "Sterling" likely originates from the Old English stiere (meaning strong or immovable) or steorling (little star), referring to symbols found on early Norman pennies. From LSD to Decimalization