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U.S. Mint Stops Penny Production, Sparks Coin Shortage

12/12/2025

48 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Mint has halted penny production, causing a coin shortage affecting local businesses.
The last pennies were auctioned at Stacks & Bowers, with the final lot selling for $800,000.
Retailers report fewer cash transactions and round prices to the nearest nickel.
Denny Ilyes, owner of Twin Pine Farm Country Store, says nearly 80% of sales are cashless, yet pennies remain required.

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Story summary

The U.S. Mint has halted penny production, causing a coin shortage affecting local businesses.
The last pennies were auctioned at Stacks & Bowers, with the final lot selling for $800,000.
Retailers report fewer cash transactions and round prices to the nearest nickel.
Denny Ilyes, owner of Twin Pine Farm Country Store, says nearly 80% of sales are cashless, yet pennies remain required.