fractional currency

American  

noun

1. coins or paper money of a smaller denomination than the basic monetary unit.

---

fractional currency British  

noun

1. paper or metal money of smaller denomination than the standard monetary unit

---

Etymology

Origin of fractional currency

An Americanism dating back to 1860–65

Example Sentences

It was well known, however, that a very large amount of fractional currency issued had been destroyed, and could not be presented for redemption, and could hardly be held to be "outstanding."

From Recollections of Forty Years in the House, Senate and Cabinet An Autobiography. by Sherman, John

This bill proposes to restore the old silver dollar, and with it and the subsidiary coins of the United States to redeem the United States notes and fractional currency.

From Recollections of Forty Years in the House, Senate and Cabinet An Autobiography. by Sherman, John

Mr. Hamilton, of Maryland, inquired: "I would ask the Senator if there is authority to reissue that fractional currency?"

From Recollections of Forty Years in the House, Senate and Cabinet An Autobiography. by Sherman, John

It was represented that the headquarters of the product was at Mahanoy City, Pa. I bought twenty-five dollars, face value, in twenty-five cent fractional currency very well done.

From Between the Lines Secret Service Stories Told Fifty Years After by Smith, Henry Bascom

G. Tarleton.—U. S. fractional currency has no value beyond face unless it is absolutely uncirculated.

From Harper's Round Table, July 30, 1895 by Various