pine tree shilling

noun

1. a silver coin minted in Massachusetts in the mid to late 17th century, named for the pine tree within a circle shown on the obverse side.

Word History and Origins

Origin of pine tree shilling¹

An Americanism dating back to 1820–30

Example Sentences

The old people were displeased with the match and cut Rebecca off with "one pine tree shilling."

From Project Gutenberg

They were two old pieces of ringing Spanish silver, a tiny golden coin of Hindostan, a dime, and a pine-tree shilling.

From Project Gutenberg