half sovereign

noun

1. a gold coin of the United Kingdom, discontinued in 1917, equal to 10 shillings.

Word History and Origins

Origin of half sovereign¹

First recorded in 1495–1505

Example Sentences

It chanced that he was reduced to his last coppers, and so the half sovereign was a boon indeed.

From Project Gutenberg

What Betty would have said had there been no half-sovereign forthcoming history will never relate.

From Project Gutenberg

The cabman asked for a few shillings more, reminding his fare that the half-sovereign given to him was 'on account.'

From Project Gutenberg

They are called half-Sovereign States because they are sovereign within their borders but not without.

From Project Gutenberg

And so, before putting any other questions to him, I felt in my pocket for a new half sovereign, which I hoped would answer.

From Project Gutenberg