The iconic penny is on its way out. With the U.S. Treasury set to stop minting the coin in early 2026 due to rising production costs and declining use, Americans are left wondering what to do with their spare change. As the nation bids farewell to a 233-year tradition, here’s how to make the most of those remaining copper coins.
Spend Them
Even though the U.S. Treasury will stop minting pennies in 2026, they’ll remain legal tender. You can spend them. However, as supply dwindles, stores may start rounding cash transactions to the nearest five cents. While The Common Cents Act proposes a standardized approach to rounding, the decision currently rests with individual retailers rather than government policy.
Exchange Them
Banks will accept rolled coins if you want to turn your pennies into spendable cash. Kiosks like Coinstar, often found in grocery stores, offer exchange options for cash, gift cards, or donations. Keep in mind that some machines charge a fee for cash payouts.
Donate Them
Even the smallest donations can make a big difference. As pennies disappear from production, you can donate your spare change to local charities, schools, and community initiatives. A handful of pennies may not seem like much, but collectively, they can support important causes and help those in need.
Hold on to the rare ones
Some pennies are worth more than their face value. Collectors prize “wheat pennies” (minted between 1909 and 1958) and rare variations like the 1943 copper Lincoln wheat penny, which can be worth thousands.
Resources like The 2026 Red Book: A Guide Book of United States Coins and websites like USCoinsValue.com can help assess a penny’s value. For authentication, services like CAC and Numismatic Guaranty Company provide professional verification, though experts caution that most pennies won’t make you rich.
Use Them In Your Garden
Pennies can do more than just sit in your piggy bank; they can help your plants thrive. The copper in pennies may reduce the risk of fungal infections like blight in garden vegetables and indoor plants.
However, balance is key. While small amounts of copper can enrich the soil, too much can cause toxicity and stunt plant growth. Use pennies wisely for a greener, healthier garden.
Preserve Floral Arrangements
A simple penny can help fresh flowers last longer. Dropping a pre-1982 penny into a vase keeps blooms vibrant by preventing plant-rotting bacteria.
These older pennies contain more copper than recent ones, making them an effective way to preserve floral arrangements and keep them looking fresh for days.
Make DIY Penny Weights
There is no need for pricey drapery weights; pennies can do the trick. If your curtains flare out or hang unevenly, open the stitching at the bottom hem, tuck in a few coins, and sew it back up.
The added weight keeps the fabric straight and helps your drapes hang neatly. It’s an easy and budget-friendly fix.
Create A Slug Barrier
Place pre-1982 pennies in a circle around young plants. The copper reacts with the moisture from slugs, creating a mild electric shock that keeps them away. This natural barrier protects delicate seedlings and prevents damage to your garden without using harsh chemicals.
Make A Cold Compress
Pennies can double as a quick cold compress. Place a handful of coins in an old sock or a sealed plastic bag, then freeze it. The metal retains cold well, making it an easy solution for soothing minor aches, swelling, or bruises in a pinch.
Make Coin Jewelry
Pennies can be turned into stylish DIY jewelry, from bracelets to hand-stamped pendants. While altering coins for fraud is illegal, repurposing them into accessories is fine.
The U.S. Mint doesn’t officially encourage modifying coins, but there are no penalties for creating unique jewelry. Just don’t try to pass altered coins as something they’re not.
Bake The Perfect Pie
Line your raw pie crust with foil or parchment paper, place 25 to 50 pennies on top without letting them touch the dough, and bake as usual. The weight keeps the dough from bubbling, while the metal helps conduct heat for an evenly baked, flaky crust. Use this simple, effective trick for perfect pies.
Make Buttons
Transform old pennies into unique buttons for jackets, coats, and shirts. Soak them in a salt and vinegar solution for 30-50 minutes, then scrub to restore their shine. Drill two small holes into each penny and sew them onto fabric for a stylish, customized touch.
Repel Flies
Fill a clear plastic bag with water and drop in a few pennies. Hang the bag in a sunny spot using a string. The reflected light from the coins disorients flies, making them leave. This simple trick is a natural deterrent, keeping pesky insects away from patios, doorways, and outdoor dining spaces.
Fix Wobbly Furniture
A few pennies can stabilize shaky furniture. Simply stack them under the uneven leg and secure them with super glue. This quick fix adds balance and keeps chairs and tables steady without costly repairs.
Upgrade A Mirror
You can transform any mirror into a stylish piece with pennies. Clean and glue the coins onto the frame or directly onto a frameless mirror for a creative, eye-catching design. It’s an easy DIY project to add charm and character to your space.
