Abstract: A pre-load indicating washer for properly tensioning a joint held together by an externally threaded member and an internally threaded member. The pre-load indicating washer has a plurality of protuberances, struck and partially sheared from the annular body of the washer, which are pushed under load back into a corresponding number of indentations in the annular body which are formed when the protuberances are formed. The protuberances of the pre-load indicating washer are curved in outline with no portion of the protuberances extending radially outward beyond the outer periphery of the bearing surface of an externally threaded member when the pre-load indicating washer is positioned adjacent the externally threaded member, or radially outward beyond the outer periphery of the bearing surface of an internally threaded member when the pre-load indicating washer is positioned adjacent the internally threaded member.