coin of the realm
The phrase "coin of the realm" originates from historical contexts where it referred to the official currency of a sovereign state. It is also used metaphorically to denote something of high value or importance in various fields.
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Definition
C1Finance
(historical, legal)The official currency issued by a government and used as the standard medium of exchange within its borders.
Example
- During the medieval period, the coin of the realm was the primary means of trade and taxation.
- Only the coin of the realm was accepted for paying taxes in the kingdom.
C1General
(figurative)Something considered highly valuable or influential within a specific area or context.
Example
- In academia, published research is often seen as the coin of the realm.
- For tech companies, innovation is the coin of the realm.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "coin of the realm":