Why a Baker’s Dozen is 13 Instead of 12

There are three main theories for why a baker’s dozen is 13 instead of 12.

But most think it has its origins in the fact that many societies throughout history have had extremely strict laws concerning baker’s wares.

This due to the fact that it is fairly easy for bakers to cheat patrons and sell them less than what they think they are getting.

These societies took this very seriously as bread was a primary food source for many people.

For example, in ancient Egypt, should a baker be found to cheat someone, they would have their ear nailed to the door of their bakery.

In Babylon, if a baker was found to have sold a “light loaf” to someone, the baker would have his hand chopped off.

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Source: Why a Baker’s Dozen is 13 Instead of 12