Weights and Measures

Pointing to the historical connection between the coinage power and the power to fix weights and measures and noting the possibility that, in light of limitations on Congress’ generalized Commerce Power, the clause was intended to “enable[ ] Congress to set measurement standards for all transactions within the United States.”

Noting Hamilton’s statements in support of the Coinage Clause and regulation of weights and measures.

Noting John Quincy Adams’ doubt as to whether the Weights and Measure Clause permitted Congress to adopt the metric system, or whether the power to “fix” extended only to standardizing the units of measure as used at the Founding.