Overview
- On November 12, U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach struck the final circulating penny at the Philadelphia Mint, formally ending routine production.
- The last five pennies carry a unique omega mark, will not enter circulation, and are slated for auction to support Mint operations with any excess proceeds going to the Treasury.
- President Trump ordered the halt in February after years of losses, as the Mint reported a 2024 unit cost of about 3.69 cents per penny.
- Auction estimates vary widely, with some experts projecting up to $5 million for the set and others expecting the top coin at around $1 million.
- Existing pennies remain legal tender and widely available, though economists warn cash transactions may be rounded to the nearest nickel over time, potentially adding costs for lower-income consumers.