Penny Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Penny come from? What does the surname Penny mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Penny and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Penny Origin: What does the last name Penny mean?
The surname Penny has English origins, with records dating back to the early 15th century. It is believed to have originated as a descriptive occupational name for someone who worked with pennies or as a coin maker. The Penny surname has remained closely associated with England from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Over time, it spread globally, with significant records found in the United States by the 20th century. Today, the Penny surname remains prominent in England, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, among other countries.
YourRoots data confirms the presence of the Penny surname in England since the early 15th century, with a steady global spread over the centuries. The surname Penny may have evolved from an occupational background, reflecting the skilled work of coin making or monetary-related activities. It is intriguing to see how the Penny surname has maintained its relevance and presence in various countries worldwide, showcasing a rich history and heritage associated with this distinctive English surname.
Penny Last Name History: Where did the last name Penny come from?
Origin of Penny Surname: Where does the last name Penny originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Penny first appeared in records from England around the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Penny spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Penny: What does the Penny surname history look like in the early days?
The Penny surname remained closely associated with England from the 15th to the 19th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Penny family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Penny surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Penny surname grew significantly in the United States. The Penny surname remains prominent in England and the United States. It appears in many countries, including Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Explore Penny last name heritage and Penny surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Penny Surame?
Sydney Penny
Sydney Margaret Penny (born Aug 7, 1971) is an American actress known for her roles in various TV shows and films. She gained recognition for her performances in "The Thorn Birds" and "Pale Rider," earning her Young Artist Awards. Penny also appeared in soap operas like "Santa Barbara" and "All My Children." With a career spanning decades, she has showcased her talent in dramas, sitcoms, and movies, solidifying her status as a versatile actress in the entertainment industry.
Joe Penny
Joseph Edward Penny Jr. (born Jun 24, 1956) is a retired American actor known for his roles as Nick Ryder on the detective series Riptide and as Jake Styles in the CBS TV series Jake and the Fatman. Penny has appeared in various TV shows and films, including guest roles on popular series like The Sopranos and CSI. With an extensive career in television, he has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Henny Penny
Henny Penny (no specific birth or death date) is a famous character from a European folk tale known as "Chicken Little" or "Chicken Licken" in the United States. The story follows a chicken who believes the sky is falling, leading to a series of comical events with other animals. This tale has been passed down for centuries, with different versions and names for the characters across different cultures. "Henny Penny" continues to be referenced in various media, showcasing the enduring popularity of this classic story about paranoia and mass hysteria.
Will Penny
Will Penny (February 12, 1920 – June 23, 1998) was an American actor known for his role in the 1968 Western film "Will Penny." He starred alongside Charlton Heston, Joan Hackett, and Donald Pleasence in this classic movie. Despite appearing in various films throughout his career, "Will Penny" was his most memorable performance. The film received critical acclaim for its realistic portrayal of the cowboy life in the West. Will Penny's legacy lives on as a beloved character in the realm of Western cinema.
Rashaad Penny
Rashaad Armein Penny (February 2, 1996 - ) is a former American football running back known for his time with the Seattle Seahawks in the NFL. He played college football for the San Diego State Aztecs before being drafted in the first round of the 2018 NFL draft. Penny had standout performances throughout his career, including multiple games with over 100 rushing yards and receiving accolades such as NFC Offensive Player of the Week. Despite facing injuries, Penny showcased his talent and dedication to the sport before retiring in 2024.
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