Decimal Collection

Dewey Decimal System
Card index showing use of the Dewey Decimal Classification system, the most widely used library classification system, devised by Melvil Dewey in the 1870s

Babylonian cuneiform numerals. Key to the clay-pressed Cuneiform numerals used in the later Babylonian period (2000BC to 75AD)

London shoppers with conversion tables - Decimilisation
London shoppers equipped with conversion tables attempting to fathom the new Decimal currency, during a pre D-Day demonstration. Date: 1970

The first all-decimal shop
Slightly bewildered Croydon lady, getting to grips with Britain's new decimal currency in April 1970, in the first all- Decimal shop in West Croydon

Decimal clock, c. 1798-1805 (pine, brass & enamel)
3259825 Decimal clock, c.1798-1805 (pine, brass & enamel) by Destigny, Pierre Daniel (1787-1855); height: 48.3 cm; Fitzwilliam Museum, University of Cambridge, UK; eFitzwilliam Museum; French

Decimal clock, c. 1798-1805 (pine, brass & enamel)
3259824 Decimal clock, c.1798-1805 (pine, brass & enamel) by Destigny, Pierre Daniel (1787-1855); height: 48.3 cm; Fitzwilliam Museum, University of Cambridge, UK; eFitzwilliam Museum; French

Decimal clock, c. 1798-1805 (pine, brass & enamel)
3259828 Decimal clock, c.1798-1805 (pine, brass & enamel) by Destigny, Pierre Daniel (1787-1855); height: 48.3 cm; Fitzwilliam Museum, University of Cambridge, UK; eFitzwilliam Museum; French

Decimal clock, c. 1798-1805 (pine, brass & enamel)
3259826 Decimal clock, c.1798-1805 (pine, brass & enamel) by Destigny, Pierre Daniel (1787-1855); height: 48.3 cm; Fitzwilliam Museum, University of Cambridge, UK; eFitzwilliam Museum; French

Decimal clock, c. 1798-1805 (pine, brass & enamel)
3259827 Decimal clock, c.1798-1805 (pine, brass & enamel) by Destigny, Pierre Daniel (1787-1855); height: 48.3 cm; Fitzwilliam Museum, University of Cambridge, UK; eFitzwilliam Museum; French

Decimal Currency Feature February 1971 Decimalisation Day - Conservative MP Wildred Proudfoot pictured at supermarket where he announced that decimal coinage was now available at No5 checkout in

Public information notice, Decimal Money
Public information advertisement preparing for the introduction of decimal money in the UK on 15 February 1971. 1971

Pre-decimalisation British coinage - Victoria and Edward VII
Christmas Greeting postcards showing pre-decimalisation British coinage from the reign of Queen Victoria and Edward VII. Date: 1906

The Village, Knossington, England
The Village, Knossington, near Oakham, Leicestershire, England. The photograph (which is about 4.5 inches x 6.5) may possibly be the owners/staff of the shop in later years (probably 1950s or 60s)

DECIMAL FRACTIONS. The first appearance of decimal fractions in the unique 10th century manuscript of Abu l-Hasan al-Uqlidisis Kitab al-Fusul

Title page of Cockers Decimal Arithmetic, owned by U. S. President John Adams, printed in 1703
ARITHMETIC BOOK, 1703. Title page of Cockers Decimal Arithmetic, owned by U.S. President John Adams, printed in 1703

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"Unlocking the Mysteries of Decimal: From Dewey to Babylonian Cuneiform Numerals" Step into a world where numbers reign supreme and discover the fascinating realm of decimal. The journey begins with the iconic Dewey Decimal System, guiding us through libraries and organizing knowledge like never before. But let's not forget that decimal has ancient roots too. Delve into history as we explore Babylonian cuneiform numerals, an early numerical system that laid the foundation for our modern understanding of decimals. In bustling London, shoppers once relied on conversion tables during the transition to decimilisation. Witness their determination to adapt as they navigated this new numeric landscape. Imagine stepping inside the first all-decimal shop, a revolutionary concept that simplified transactions and streamlined commerce. This groundbreaking establishment paved the way for future decimal-based businesses around the world. Transport yourself back in time with a magnificent pine, brass & enamel decimal clock from 1798-1805. Marvel at its intricate design and ponder how it revolutionized timekeeping by embracing decimals instead of traditional hours and minutes. As you stroll through history, encounter another stunning example of a decimal clock - reminding us how this innovative approach transcended borders and captivated minds across different eras. To ensure everyone was well-informed about this transformative change, public information notices were displayed far and wide. These reminders served as beacons of knowledge in an era transitioning towards decimal money systems. Before decimilisation took hold in Britain, pre-decimal British coinage featuring Queen Victoria and King Edward VII ruled supreme. Explore these historical artifacts that bear witness to a bygone era when decimals were yet to dominate daily life. Finally, venture into The Village in Knossington, England - an enchanting place where remnants of ancient civilizations intertwine with modern society. Here lies evidence showcasing how even thousands of years ago people grappled with numerical systems akin to decimals. Decimal is more than just a number system.