red cent

Definition

A copper penny.

Etymology

Probably from the color of the copper from which the coin was minted. Prior to 1864, a brighter nickel-based cent was used, often called the white cent. It is also possible that the red originally referred to the obverse bearing an Indian head stamp. See Indian Head cent.

Example Sentences

• "I wouldn't pay one red cent for a ticket."
• "Snorkey. But I ain't got two cents. What's a fellow to do if he hasn't got a red?"
• "Day by day for two-and-a-half years, I've seen resources diminishing, disappearing. We're begging, damn near down on our knees, and not getting one red cent."