sell the family silver

Etymology
Referring to the selling of heirlooms. Use in reference to national policy popularized in a paraphrasing of a 1985 speech by former British prime minister : “The sale of assets is common with individuals and states when they run into financial difficulties. First, all the Georgian silver goes, and then all that nice furniture that used to be in the saloon. Then the Canalettos go,” in reference the privatization policy of.

Verb

 * 1)  To sell one's property (not necessarily heirlooms) in an attempt to avoid or escape financial difficulties.
 * 2)  To sell a valuable or critical asset, especially for immediate or short-term gain.
 * 1)  To sell a valuable or critical asset, especially for immediate or short-term gain.
 * 1)  To sell a valuable or critical asset, especially for immediate or short-term gain.
 * 1)  To sell a valuable or critical asset, especially for immediate or short-term gain.