A "bob" in English money was a slang term for a shilling in the old pre-decimal currency system.
Understanding the Bob: A Slang Term for a Shilling
In the historical English monetary system, before the UK switched to decimal currency in 1971, a key unit was the shilling. This shilling was often referred to colloquially as a "bob". The provided reference confirms this: a shilling was commonly called a 'bob', described as a 'lovely old slang word'.
Key Facts About the Shilling and the Bob
- Value: A shilling was worth one-twentieth of a pound sterling. The reference states, 'A pound comprised twenty Shillings'.
- Slang Usage: 'Bob' was the popular, informal term for a shilling.
- Grammar: Interestingly, the slang term 'bob' was used irrespective of the quantity. The reference notes, 'no-one ever said 'fifteen bobs' - this would have been said as 'fifteen bob'.'
The Old Currency System (Pre-1971)
To put the bob into context, here's a simplified look at some key units in the old British currency system before decimalization:
| Unit | Slang Term(s) | Equivalent Value |
|---|---|---|
| Pound (£) | Quid | 20 Shillings |
| Shilling | Bob | 12 Pence (d) |
| Penny (d) | - | 1/12th of a Shilling |
| Florin | Two Bob Bit | 2 Shillings (1/10th £) |
| Crown | - | 5 Shillings |
Note: This table provides a brief overview; other units also existed.
Practical Examples of Using 'Bob'
Imagine someone in the mid-20th century talking about prices:
- Instead of saying "That cost five shillings," they might say, "That cost five bob."
- A price of 15 shillings would be referred to as "fifteen bob", not "fifteen bobs", as the reference clearly states.
The term 'bob' highlights the informal and traditional way money was discussed in Britain for many years. While shillings are no longer in circulation, the term 'bob' is sometimes still understood in a historical context or by older generations.
