threepenny

[ thrip-uh-nee, threp-, thruhp-; three-pen-ee ]

adjective

1. of the amount or value of threepence.
2. of little worth.

Word History and Origins

Origin of threepenny¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; three, penny

Example Sentences

The current proposed design is a 12-sided coin similar in shape to the pre-decimalisation threepence piece, more commonly known as the "threepenny bit".

From BBC

With a hammer and two threepenny nails in hand, Stella Armijo emerged from her low adobe farmhouse one morning while Herbie reclined on his front stoop trying to read a book.

From Literature

A Treasury spokesman said the time was right to "retire" the existing £1 coin and using the threepenny bit as inspiration for its replacement was a "fitting tribute" to such an iconic design.

From BBC

The 1-pound coin is to be replaced by a new model based on the old threepenny bit, Finance Minister George Osborne will announce in Wednesday's Budget.

From Reuters

The paper's lead story says the £1 coin is to be scrapped in favour of a new design "shaped like an old threepenny bit".

From BBC