Does it make cents to get rid of the penny?

Jun 30, 2023
They clog our couches and streets, and they buy less than they cost to make. But they hold value for our national identity.
People treat the penny as if it's worthless, yet the currency continues to stand the test of time.
Max Zolotukhin/Getty Images

A new Senate bill puts pennies in the crosshairs

Mar 31, 2017
A new Senate bill proposes some changes to American currency — switching from dollar bills to coins, making nickels out of cheaper metals and suspending production of the penny. But why are these copper-colored coins in the crosshairs? Click the audio player above to hear the full story.

Maybe it's time to get rid of the penny

Apr 19, 2016
Treasury Secretary Jack Lew suggested that it might be time to get rid of the penny
Though nothing has been said officially, U.S. Secretary of the Treasury suggested in a memo that maybe it's time to get rid of the penny. 
Tim Boyle/Getty Images

We lost $100 million making pennies and nickels

Dec 15, 2014
Dreadful penny and nickel news, but cheaper copper shaves millions off the loss.