Exchequer standard yard of King Henry VII, 1495-1497

Henry VII Exchequer "End" standard yard (octagonal, bronze bar)

This Yard rule was made at the command of Henry VII, King of England (1485-1509), to act as an Exchequer standard of length. Copies of the rule were issued to the various boroughs around England to enforce and encourage true measure in trade and commerce. This standard was not a success and was superseded by a more accurate length standard produced during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I around 1588.