Shilling: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'shilling' comes from the Old English term 'scilling', which meant 'a coin'.
• It originally referred to a specific value of currency, evolving over centuries in different regions.
• In medieval times, it was often associated with both silver coins and their worth in terms of goods or services.

Historical Use

• In England, the shilling was used for daily transactions until the decimalization of currency in 1971.
• The value of a shilling has changed over time; it was worth 12 pennies or 1/20th of a pound in the old system.
• In various British colonies, shillings were minted and used, illustrating its global influence.

Pop Culture

• The phrase 'sixpence and a shilling' appears in various songs, reflecting its significance in British culture.
• Shillings play a role in classic British literature, with authors often referencing them to convey the time period.
• In some movies and shows, characters might express wealth or lack thereof through the mention of shillings.

Economics

• The usage of shilling influenced the way economies functioned, particularly in trade and commerce in earlier centuries.
• The transition from the shilling to the decimal system is an example of how countries adapt their currency for modern economics.
• Understanding the value of historical coins like the shilling can help comprehend economic changes over time.

Coin Collecting

• Shilling coins are popular among collectors, often valued not just for their age but also for their design and historical significance.
• Certain shilling coins can fetch high prices in auctions, especially if they're rare or in good condition.
• Coin collectors often study the markings and mint years of shillings to understand more about their history.

Ranked #12,296, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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