What is the origin of the term hand over fist?

In: Idioms and Slang, Word and Phrase Origins

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Most likely a naval term, the hauling of a rope is done "hand over fist". Originally indicated slow steady progress, as in bringing two ships together via ropes, but has taken on an insinuation of great speed, when used referring to the making or spending money.

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Hand over fist? Where did hand over fist come from? What is the origin and meaning of the idiom 'hand over fist'?