Obs. slang or colloq. [Diminutive from JOE sb.2: see -Y.] A fourpenny piece: see quot. 1876.

1

1865.  H. Kingsley, Hillyars & Burtons, xlii. A young man as has owed me a Joey.

2

1876.  E. Hawkins, Silver Coins Eng., 421. In 1836 it was resolved to issue groats for general circulation…. The legend, FOUR PENCE…. These pieces are said to have owed their existence to the pressing instance of Mr. [Joseph] Hume, from whence they, for some time, bore the nick-name of Joeys.

3

1884.  Blackmore, Tommy Upm., I. 287–8. Here is the eightpence—a couple of Joeys, as you call them.

4