egg coal

noun

1. anthracite in sizes ranging from 2.44 to 3.25 inches (6.2 to 8.3 centimeters), intermediate between broken coal and stove coal.
2. bituminous coal in sizes ranging from 1.5 to 4 inches (4 to 10 centimeters).

Word History and Origins

Origin of egg coal¹

An Americanism dating back to 1850–55

Example Sentences

When viewed under a microscope the samples of crystals given to me did not appear to have any definite form, but rather resembled pieces of broken up egg coal of fine quality.

From Project Gutenberg

The Red Rock Coal Co. reply that they will offer egg coal for shipment at the rate of two cars per week throughout the year, at $1.15 per net ton, cars f.o.b. mines.

From Project Gutenberg

The Arlington Coal Co. write that the Red Rock Coal Co. may send a one year contract drawn in triplicate for three cars of egg coal per week at $1.12½ per net ton, cars f.o.b. mines.

From Project Gutenberg

The Arlington Coal Company, Old Colony Building, Chicago, Ill., write to the Red Rock Coal Company, Auburn, Ill., saying that they need several cars of egg coal per week throughout the year.

From Project Gutenberg

Presently, instead of a furnace full of fire, I had a furnace full of egg coal.

From Project Gutenberg