In 1515, the Court of Aldermen of the City of London settled the order of precedence for the forty-eight livery companies then in existence. This was based on the companies' economic or political power. The first twelve companies became known as the Great Twelve, and included the Merchant Taylors. However, the Merchant Taylors and the Skinners have always disputed their exact precedence, so once a year (at Easter) they exchange sixth and seventh place. This is one possible origin of the phrase ‘at sixes and sevens’, although the phrase may well have been used earlier.

The Great Twelve in order of precedence

 

  1. The Worshipful Company of Mercers (general merchants)
  2. The Worshipful Company of Grocers
  3. The Worshipful Company of Drapers (wool and cloth merchants)
  4. The Worshipful Company of Fishmongers
  5. The Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths
  6. The Worshipful Company of Merchant Taylors (tailors)
    (alternates with the Skinners)
  7. The Worshipful Company of Skinners (fur traders)
    (alternates with the Merchant Taylors)
  8. The Worshipful Company of Haberdashers
  9. The Worshipful Company of Salters
  10. The Worshipful Company of Ironmongers
  11. The Worshipful Company of Vintners (wine merchants)
  12. The Worshipful Company of Clothworkers