Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1941 (SND Vol. II).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
BRASSO COAL, BRASSY —, comp. n. Coal veined with iron pyrites.Fif. 1937 St Andrews Citizen (6 March) 5/4:
It is estimated that there is contained in the four seams 180,000 tons of marl coal . . . and 240,000 tons of brasso coal . . . or brassy coal as it is sometimes named.Gsw.2 1937:
Brassy coal is well known in Glasgow. A good deal comes from certain pits in the west. In some cases the coal is marked by a brassy smear and may then be used in the household. In the worst cases solid brass is found in it and this coal gives off an offensive smell, making it unsuitable for household fuel.
