A common Roman coin, of the value of about 7d., but which purchased a great deal more than the same sum would now. It was the laborer’s wages for a day (Matt. 20). Higher sums were reckoned by this coin, as the debt of 500 pence in Luke 7:41. The Lord when answering the Jews said, “Show me a penny” (Luke 20:24). It was the chief Roman silver coin. See WEIGHTS AND MEASURES.