Noah Webster
Sterling
STERLING, adjective [probably from Easterling.]
1. An epithet by which English money of account is distinguished; as a pound sterling; a shilling sterling; a penny sterling It is not now applied to the coins of England; but sterling cost, sterling value are used.
2. Genuine; pure; of excellent quality; as a work of sterling merit; a man of sterling wit or good sense.
STERLING, noun
1. English money.
And Roman wealth in English sterling view.
In this use, sterling may signify English coins.
2. Standard; rate. [Little Used in either sense.]