Pound Sterling

money · UK · currency · history

The base unit. The pound is the main unit of British money, and each pound is split into 100 smaller pieces called pence. This system has been used since 1971.

Used across territories. Sterling is the official currency not just in the United Kingdom, but also in nine dependent territories like Gibraltar and the Falkland Islands.

Ancient origins. The pound sterling is one of the oldest currencies still in use today, with roots going back to the Kingdom of England over a thousand years ago.

Called by two names. You might hear people call it the British pound or pound sterling, especially when talking about money between different countries.