Cryptocurrency Q&A
Why do pirates say pieces of eight?
Why do pirates say pieces of eight?
EthereumElite
Mon Nov 25 2024
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6 answers
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I've always wondered why pirates in movies and stories often say 'pieces of eight.' Is there a historical reason behind this phrase? What does it actually mean and why did they use it?
6 answers
KimchiChic
Wed Nov 27 2024
People would divide coins into eight pieces, known as “bits.”
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SamuraiHonor
Wed Nov 27 2024
In historical times, the act of cutting money was not deemed illegal.
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CharmedSun
Wed Nov 27 2024
It was a common practice to make change by literally cutting coins.
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alexander_rose_writer
Tue Nov 26 2024
The British adopted a term for the Spanish dollar, calling it a “Piece of Eight.”
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Paolo
Tue Nov 26 2024
This term originated from the coin being divisible into eight pieces or bits.
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