HALF DISME Meaning and
Definition
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A "half disme" is a term used in numismatics, referring to a specific type of coin that was in circulation during the late 18th century in the United States. The word "disme" is an archaic spelling of "dime," which is a denomination of currency equal to one-tenth of a dollar. Therefore, a "half disme" is half the value of a dime, or equivalent to five cents.
The term "half disme" specifically refers to a coin that was first minted in 1792. These small copper coins were handcrafted and struck with the word "HALF DISME" on one side, while the opposite side carried a design of an eagle in flight. The name "half disme" originated from the French word "demi-disme," which means half dime.
Historically, the production of these coins holds significance as it marks the very first official coinage produced by the newly established United States federal government. They were minted as an experimental measure to determine the feasibility of having a standard currency system.
Owing to their unique historical context and limited mintage, half dismes are highly sought after by collectors of American coins. They hold both numismatic and historical value, serving as a tangible representation of the country's early attempts at creating a standardized currency system. Consequently, these coins often command a premium price in the coin collecting market.
Common Misspellings for HALF DISME
- galf disme
- balf disme
- nalf disme
- jalf disme
- ualf disme
- yalf disme
- hzlf disme
- hslf disme
- hwlf disme
- hqlf disme
- hakf disme
- hapf disme
- haof disme
- hald disme
- halc disme
- halv disme
- halg disme
- halt disme
- halr disme
- half sisme
Etymology of HALF DISME
The word "half disme" has an interesting etymology. It originates from the Old French word "disme", meaning "tenth", which itself comes from the Latin word "decimus" with the same meaning. In the late 18th century, when the United States was forming its own decimal currency system, there was a need for a smaller denomination coin. To describe a coin worth half of a tenth (half of a dime), the term "half disme" was coined. This term eventually evolved into the modern word "dime" for a ten-cent coin, while "half disme" fell out of use.
