Halfpence Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ท
halfpence
[หhษหlpfens ]
Definition
currency unit
Halfpence refers to a former unit of currency in the UK, specifically a coin that is worth half of a penny. It was introduced as a physical piece of currency during the medieval period and continued to be in circulation until decimalization in 1971, which rendered it obsolete. The term can also refer to the value equivalent to half a penny in other contexts, particularly historical references. Although the coin itself is no longer in use, the term may still appear in discussions about British currency history.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- A cup of tea used to cost just a few halfpence.
- He found a halfpence in the bottom of his pocket.
- In the 19th century, halfpence coins were quite common.
Translations
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Origin of 'halfpence'
The term 'halfpence' originates from the Old English word 'pening', which means penny. The concept of dividing a penny into two dates back to Anglo-Saxon England, where coins were minted in various denominations to facilitate trade. The halfpenny was officially minted as a separate coin during the 16th century and became increasingly common in daily transactions throughout the following centuries. With the establishment of a decimal system in 1971, the halfpenny coin was phased out, but it still holds historical significance in discussions of British currency and economy. Despite its absence from modern currency, the halfpence remains a symbol of Britain's rich monetary history.