The last-ever penny will be minted today in Philadelphia (cnn.com)

Article summary

The US Mint has stopped producing pennies due to their high production cost, which is nearly four cents per coin. The last penny was minted in Philadelphia, and although the coin will remain legal tender, its removal from circulation is causing problems for retailers. Some merchants plan to round prices to the nearest nickel, while others may face legal trouble for doing so. The discontinuation of the penny has been described as chaotic, with no clear guidance for retailers on how to handle the change.

Main themes

• Penny production cessation
• Retail impact
• Coin usage habits
• Payment methods
• Economic implications
• Consumer behavior

What commenters say

• The demise of the penny is a result of its declining usage and high production cost, making it a sensible decision to stop producing them.
• Rounding prices to the nearest nickel may cause problems for retailers and consumers, particularly in states where exact change is required by law.
• Some people prefer to use exact change and enjoy the process of counting coins, while others find it inconvenient and time-consuming.
• The shift towards cashless payments and contactless transactions is seen as a more convenient and secure option by some, but others are concerned about the potential risks and loss of consumer rights.
• The lack of guidance for retailers on handling the penny's discontinuation has led to confusion and chaos, with some calling for legislation to address the issue.
• The use of coins is seen as outdated and inconvenient by some, who prefer the ease and speed of card transactions or mobile payments.
• Others argue that the penny's demise is a loss of a tangible connection to money and a nostalgic part of everyday life.
• The discussion around the penny's discontinuation highlights the need for a more efficient and secure payment system that balances convenience with consumer protection.