When Was Penny Candy Invented?
Candy was originally sold in apothecary shops as early as A.D. 700 as digestive aids and to flavor medicines. The penny originated as the pfennig. The composition of the pfennig was set by Charlemagne in the late 700s. Thus, despite the misconception that penny candy originated in the U.S. in 1896 with the sale of the Tootsie Roll, penny candy has existed for over 1300 years. The term “penny candy,” no longer refers to its cost. The term is now used for any candy invented and distributed 50 years ago or more.
