Fewer pennies, more problems: Why retailers are pleading for exact change

Tech Insider : Business
A sign at a Target in Astoria, Queens.
A sign at a Target in Astoria, Queens.

Paul Squire/Business Insider

The US minted its last penny. See how the coin evolved throughout its 232-year history.

Tech Insider : Economy, Economy, Business
Treasurer of the United States Brandon Beach holds the last penny stamped at the US Mint on November 12, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Beach pressed the final pennies at an event held at the facility. The pennies pressed bear a special 'Omega' and will not be put in circulation, but will be auctioned off.
The last US penny was minted on November 12 and will be auctioned off.

Matthew Hatcher/Getty Images

The penny is no more. Good riddance.

Tech Insider : Economy, Business
A stray penny on a ledge at the US treasury
The US minted its last penny on Wednesday.

Matthew Hatcher/Getty Images

The US penny is officially dead

Tech Insider : Economy, Business
Pennies
The US minted its final penny on Wednesday.

Illustration by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Some fast-food chains are making a quiet change to bills as the penny disappears

Tech Insider : Business
Pennies are displayed on October 31, 2025, in San Anselmo, California.
Food brands are making subtle pricing changes as the US phases out penny production.

Illustration by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

A German grocery store charged customers the 'true price' of their food, and one cheese was almost twice as expensive

Tech Insider : Economy
European Cheese & Charcuterie Collection

Williams Sonoma

Subscribe to penny