Peter's pence

American  

Or Peter pence

noun

1. an annual tax or tribute, originally of a penny, paid by certain English property owners to the papal see until the Reformation.

2. a voluntary contribution to the pope, made by Roman Catholics.

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Peter's pence British  

noun

1. an annual tax, originally of one penny, formerly levied for the maintenance of the Papal See: abolished by Henry VIII in 1534

2. a voluntary contribution made by Roman Catholics in many countries for the same purpose

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Etymology

Origin of Peter's pence

1175–1225; Middle English Peteres peni (singular)

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

Peter's pence

The gap has been met by "Peter's pence," the aid offering from churches around the world, and other gifts.

From Time Magazine Archive

Thus there is every reason to assume,—though positive historical evidence is wanting,—that he bound the Norwegian Church to the payment of Peter's pence to the Holy See.

From Pope Adrian IV An Historical Sketch by Raby, Richard

One of those West-Saxon Kings, called Ina, made many good laws, some of which are still extant: he also was the first that granted Peter's pence to the Pope.  

From A Museum for Young Gentlemen and Ladies Or, a Private Tutor for Little Masters and Misses by

This institution was supported by a yearly contribution from England, which appears to have been the origin of Peter’s pence.

From The English Church in the Middle Ages by Hunt, William

The cause of complaint with reference to Peter’s pence arose from an attempt of William de Testa, the Pope’s collector, to demand a penny for each household, instead of the fixed sum hitherto paid.

From The English Church in the Middle Ages by Hunt, William