Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

U.S. to End Penny Production by 2026

5/27/2025

50 3

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Treasury will cease penny production by early 2026, ending a 230-year tradition.
High production costs, nearly four cents per penny, prompted this decision.
Pennies will remain legal tender and accepted by retailers until existing supplies run out.
Approximately 114 billion pennies are in circulation, with many remaining unused.

1 of 1

Story summary

The U.S. Treasury will cease penny production by early 2026, ending a 230-year tradition.
High production costs, nearly four cents per penny, prompted this decision.
Pennies will remain legal tender and accepted by retailers until existing supplies run out.
Approximately 114 billion pennies are in circulation, with many remaining unused.