not worth a plugged nickel

The phrase "not worth a plugged nickel" is an idiomatic expression used to convey that something or someone has little or no value or worth. It suggests that the item or person being referred to is essentially worthless or insignificant. The phrase originated in the United States during the 19th century, when small denomination coins or tokens made of base metals were commonly referred to as "nickels." The addition of "plugged" emphasizes that even the small value of a nickel has been diminished or eradicated.