Where coin's not common, commons must be scant.

When money is scarce, the everyday fare at the table is likely to be meagre. What can be served depends on what can be paid for.

The saying explains a modest meal as a consequence of limited means. It directs attention to the household's purse rather than to anyone's willingness to feed others.

Use the proverb to explain why a household or group has set a sparse table, or to temper expectations of a fuller meal when there is little money to spend on food.