pistole

American  

[pi-stohl] / pɪˈstoʊl /

noun

1. a former gold coin of Spain, equal to two escudos.

2. any of various former gold coins of Europe, as the louis d'or.

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pistole British  

/ pɪsˈtəʊl /

noun

1. any of various gold coins of varying value, formerly used in Europe

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Etymology

Origin of pistole

1585–95; < Middle French, back formation from pistolet the coin

Example Sentences

The Abb� Tegnier, secretary to the French academy, one day made a collection of a pistole a head from the members, for some general expense.

From The Book of Anecdotes and Budget of Fun; containing a collection of over one thousand of the most laughable sayings and jokes of celebrated wits and humorists. by Various

M. Rose assured him that he had put in his pistole.

From The Book of Anecdotes and Budget of Fun; containing a collection of over one thousand of the most laughable sayings and jokes of celebrated wits and humorists. by Various

Those who wait for a book till it is reprinted, show plainly that they prefer the saving of a pistole to the acquisition of knowledge.

From Curiosities of Literature, Vol. 1 by Disraeli, Isaac

There were moneys of various nations, even to the Spanish pistole and Turkish bezant.

From Traditions of Lancashire, Volume 2 by Roby, John

"Never mind," said his Excellency, whose whole countenance had lighted up at the thought of play; "I admire your garters—a pistole against them."

From The Youth of Jefferson A Chronicle of College Scrapes at Williamsburg, in Virginia, A.D. 1764 by Anonymous