Why are Nails Designated in “Penny” Sizes?

Q: Why are nails designated in “penny” sizes?

 

A: “Penny” sizes originally referred to the price for a hundred nails in England in the 15th century; the larger the nail, the higher the cost per hundred. The terminology was adopted in the United States, written with a number and the abbreviation d for penny. 10d indicates a ten-penny nail. Nails under 1-1/4 inch (brads) are sold mostly in small packages with length and wire gauge designations—i.e., 1” 18 ga. or 3/4” 16 ga. Larger nails get the d or “penny” designation. D is used to abbreviate “penny” because d is an abbreviation for denarius, a Roman coin similar to a penny that was originally used as the abbreviation in the United Kingdom.

Hot Product

fence trac
FenceTrac Fence Systems

FenceTrac is a revolutionary fence system that uses patented U-channel rails and metal posts to create a secure and sturdy frame for any type of infill. You can choose from wood, vinyl, composite, bamboo, metal, or any other material that fits your style and budget. You can also mix and match different infills to create […]

Read More >>