Trump Orders Halt to U.S. Penny Production, Sparking Debate Over Its Future
The decision has reignited discussions on the penny's economic viability, sentimental value, and potential implications for cash usage.
- President Donald Trump has directed the U.S. Treasury to stop minting pennies, citing their production cost of 3.7 cents per coin.
- The penny's potential discontinuation has raised concerns about price rounding, with some fearing it could disproportionately impact low-income and cash-reliant individuals.
- Economists argue that retiring the penny would save costs and have minimal impact on inflation, citing similar moves in countries like Canada and Australia.
- Coin collectors and dealers are divided, with some viewing the penny's end as a loss of heritage and others seeing it as an opportunity to boost interest in rare coin collections.
- The broader implications for cash usage remain a concern, as charities and small businesses rely on coins for donations and transactions.