The phrase "money for old rope" originates from the days of the British Royal Navy. In the 18th century, the Royal Navy used a vast amount of rope for its ships. Old and worn-out rope was considered useless and would often be discarded. However, enterprising individuals saw an opportunity to make money from the discarded rope. They would collect it and sell it to marine chandlers or rope makers, who would recycle it or use it for various purposes. This practice of selling old rope for a small amount of money gave rise to the expression "money for old rope," which became a colloquial phrase used to describe a worthless item that can still be sold for a small profit.