The British pound, often symbolized as £, is the official currency of the United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It is one of the oldest currencies still in use today, with a history dating back over 1,200 years. The pound is subdivided into 100 smaller units called pence. The currency is issued by the Bank of England, which is responsible for maintaining its value and stability. The British pound is widely recognized and traded globally, making it an important currency in international finance. It is often used as a benchmark for other currencies, reflecting the economic strength of the UK.