1600 W. Shakespeare iii. vi. 46 Let not Bardolfes vitall threed be cut, With edge of penny cord, and vile approach.
1790 7 Oct. 3/1 One of his Excellency's footmen was actually see to buy penny cord last Monday.
1854 Aug. 381/1 He also showed him a roll of penny-cord, hanging upon an iron-hook, with which the culprit's arms were to be tied behind his back.