E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Crocum in Ciliciam ferre.
To carry coals to Newcastle. As Cilicia abounds with saffron, to send it there would be needless and extravagant excess. For similar phrases, see ALCINOO POMA DARE, NOCTUAS ATHENAS, COALS.
