half cent

American  

noun

1. a bronze coin of the U.S., equal to one-half cent, issued at various periods between 1793 and 1857.

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Etymology

Origin of half cent

An Americanism dating back to 1780–90

Example Sentences

But now Measure A will replace it entirely, two years before the expiration date, and raise the tax rate to a half cent, which the county estimates will generate over $1 billion annually.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 31, 2025

A few areas in California still saw prices creep up Thursday, including San Bernardino County, which set a new record Thursday of $6.375 a gallon, up a half cent from Wednesday.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 6, 2022

Guardino believes voters will agree to a half cent to a penny sales tax if it means less time in soul-crushing traffic.

From Reuters • Aug. 10, 2015

The average price of a gallon of regular gasoline in the state dipped by a half cent to $4.666, according to the AAA Fuel Gauge website, easing from Tuesday's record.

From Reuters • Oct. 10, 2012

The company asked only thirteen and one third cents per acre for the land for one year and an added half cent per acre quitrent to begin in 1780.

From Blue Ridge Country by Caldwell, Erskine