shoot a penny

Being so desperate for money that you would do anything, even if it only earns you a few pennies.

If people had enough money to buy food, they would have bought food instead of buying lead to shoot.

I'm in a tough financial situation. This could happen to any Turkish young man if they get their ears pierced (except for Sakip Aga).

It means that something is very cheap or inexpensive.

Not being able to afford a bullet, even though I was poor.