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U.S. Mint Ends Penny Production After 232 Years

11/15/2025

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Mint officially ended penny production on November 12, 2025, concluding a 232-year history.
The decision stemmed from rising production costs, approximately 3.69 cents per penny, and was supported by President Trump, who called the coin "wasteful."
Despite the discontinuation, around 300 billion pennies will remain legal tender and in circulation.
Retailers are adjusting by rounding cash transactions to the nearest nickel due to a penny shortage.
The U.S. Mint expects to save $56 million annually by ceasing penny production.

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Story summary

The U.S. Mint officially ended penny production on November 12, 2025, concluding a 232-year history.
The decision stemmed from rising production costs, approximately 3.69 cents per penny, and was supported by President Trump, who called the coin "wasteful."
Despite the discontinuation, around 300 billion pennies will remain legal tender and in circulation.
Retailers are adjusting by rounding cash transactions to the nearest nickel due to a penny shortage.
The U.S. Mint expects to save $56 million annually by ceasing penny production.