How Do You Spell HALF CROWN?

Pronunciation: [hˈɑːf kɹˈa͡ʊn] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "half crown" can be confusing due to its unusual pronunciation. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced /hæf kraʊn/. The "lf" in "half" is silent, with the "a" and "f" blending together to create the /æ/ sound. Similarly, the "c" in "crown" is silent, and the "r" and "o" blend together to create the /raʊn/ sound. Therefore, the word is spelled "half crown," but pronounced as if it were spelled "haff kr-ow-n."

HALF CROWN Meaning and Definition

1. A half crown refers to a British silver coin denomination that was in circulation from the 16th century until 1970. Initially introduced during the reign of Henry VIII, the half crown coin held a value of two shillings and sixpence (2s 6d) or one-eighth of a pound sterling.

   The coin earned its name due to its design, which depicted a crown on one side and a shield on the other. It was precisely cut in half, dividing the crown design and the value inscription in half while leaving the shield intact. This deliberate division led to the name "half crown."

   Throughout its long history, the half crown underwent several modifications in terms of design and composition. Earlier versions were made of silver, while later versions were minted in a combination of copper and nickel. The last half crown issued by the British government was released in 1967 before being demonetized on January 1, 1970, as part of the decimalization process.

   The half crown held a significant place in British currency, commonly used as a means of exchange in various financial transactions. While the coin is no longer in circulation, it remains a numismatic collectible and holds cultural and historical significance in the United Kingdom.

2. The second in value of the British silver coins, in value thirty pence.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for HALF CROWN

• galf crown
• balf crown
• nalf crown
• jalf crown
• ualf crown
• yalf crown
• hzlf crown
• hslf crown
• hwlf crown
• hqlf crown
• hakf crown
• hapf crown
• haof crown
• hald crown
• halc crown
• halv crown
• halg crown
• halt crown
• halr crown
• hawlf crown

Etymology of HALF CROWN

The word "half crown" has its etymology rooted in the currency system of Britain.

The term "crown" originally referred to a silver coin that was first issued in the late 15th century during the reign of Henry VII. The coin was named "crown" due to the ornamental crown depicted on one side.

The "half crown" came into existence as a denomination that was exactly half the value of a full crown coin. It was first introduced in 1549 during the reign of Edward VI. The term "half" simply denotes that it is worth half the value of a crown.

Over time, the term "half crown" became the common way of referring to the currency unit. The coin continued to be minted until 1967, when decimalization occurred in Britain, and the half crown was no longer in circulation.

Similar spelling words for HALF CROWN

• half sole,
• half-cock.