subsidiary coin

noun

1. a coin, especially one made of silver, having a value less than that of the monetary unit.

subsidiary coin

noun

1. a coin of denomination smaller than that of the standard monetary unit

Word History and Origins

Origin of subsidiary coin¹

An Americanism dating back to 1885–90

Example Sentences

Money, as the term has been used in this book, has been taken to mean gold coin, subsidiary coin, government paper, and for the United States, bank-notes.

From Project Gutenberg

Through its ability to issue gold and silver certificates, its obligation to redeem United States notes in gold on demand, its administration of the United States mints and assay offices and the laws regulating the supply and distribution of subsidiary coin, the United States Treasury cooperates with the banks in the supply and distribution of the circulating medium of the country.

From Project Gutenberg

There being no free coinage, and no greater amount in circulation than satisfies the demand for change, instead of small bills, the dollar-pieces will circulate at their full value, on the principle of subsidiary coin, even though overvalued.

From Project Gutenberg

Wherever free coinage now exists silver is the only money, while where gold is the standard, silver is employed as a subsidiary coin, maintained at par in gold by the mandate of the government and its receipt for or redemption in gold.

From Project Gutenberg

No one proposed to restore the old silver dollar, but the House inserted a coin precisely the equivalent of five francs, or two half dollars of our subsidiary coin, and this franc dollar, as it was called, was made, like other subsidiary coins, a legal tender only for five dollars.

From Project Gutenberg