When the Two-Dollar Cocktail was so named, over a half century ago, the amount of cash in question was a substantial sum. The French brandy  — Cognac, if you like  — certainly contributes to its value.

Ingredients

　　ice cubes

　　1 1/2 ounces (1 jigger) French brandy

　　1 1/2 ounces (1 jigger) Curaçao

　　a lemon twist for garnish if desired

　　In a cocktail shaker half-filled with the ice combine the brandy and the Curaçao and shake the mixture for 30 seconds. Pour or strain the drink into a tall glass, add more ice, and garnish the drink with the lemon twist.