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Trump Halts Penny Production, Saves $56 Million Annually

11/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump ordered the U.S. Mint to stop producing pennies due to rising production costs.
The cost to produce each penny is about 3.69 cents, driving an estimated annual savings of $56 million.
About 250 billion pennies remain in circulation and will continue to be legal tender.
Retailers face challenges adjusting to the shortage, with some rounding transactions to the nearest nickel, prompting calls for federal guidance.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump ordered the U.S. Mint to stop producing pennies due to rising production costs.
The cost to produce each penny is about 3.69 cents, driving an estimated annual savings of $56 million.
About 250 billion pennies remain in circulation and will continue to be legal tender.
Retailers face challenges adjusting to the shortage, with some rounding transactions to the nearest nickel, prompting calls for federal guidance.