World Currency 3.1 WORLD
What is the oldest currency still in circulation today, having retained its original name despite the centuries and political developments ?
75% of players answered correctly.
THE CORRECT ANSWER: British pound sterling
The Pound Sterling is officially the oldest currency still in use in the world. Its roots date back to Anglo-Saxon times, around the year 775, during the reign of King Offa of Mercia. Initially, a "pound" literally represented one pound of fine silver weight, divided into 240 pence of silver. Unlike many European currencies which disappeared during revolutions or membership of the Eurozone, the Pound Sterling has survived over 1,200 years of British history. It served as the world's reference currency throughout the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century, before being dethroned by the American dollar. For the collector, it is fascinating because it underwent the transition from the non-decimal system (shillings and pence) to the decimal system in 1971. Its resilience and longevity make it an absolute pillar of monetary history and contemporary international finance.