My grandfather, an Irishman born, by a trick of fate, in Leeds England, called US pennies "Coppers." As in " Give the child a few coppers for candy." I didn't realize how apt the word was until I went to England and got large copper coins that were the smallest coin in the decimal system.
He also called policemen "coppers" Now the penny connection I understand however...why Coppers for policemen?
When you look it up it's surprising the many meanings we have given copper and cop.
Your thoughts?