U.S. Mint Ceases Penny Production; Retailers Adjust Cash Transactions

The U.S. Mint has officially ended the production of the penny after over 230 years, with the final coins struck at the Philadelphia Mint on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. Introduced in 1793, the penny has become nearly obsolete, costing almost four cents to produce. Ending the penny is projected to save taxpayers $56 million annually. President Donald Trump ordered the change due to rising costs and diminished value. Despite nostalgia and concerns from retailers about transaction handling, most production had already ceased by summer. Remaining pennies will stay in circulation as legal tender. Some businesses adapted by rounding prices or offering incentives to collect pennies from customers. The last time the U.S. discontinued a coin was in 1857 with the half-cent. Canada eliminated its penny in 2012. Despite their minimal value, coins hold historical and cultural significance, symbolizing national identity and values. Coin expert Frank Holt lamented the loss, citing their role in reflecting societal ideals.