What to Do with Your Pennies Before They Disappear

With the U.S. moving closer to phasing out the penny, many people are wondering what to do with the copper coins piling up in jars, drawers, and piggy banks. While the official timeline for the penny’s retirement remains uncertain, the writing is on the wall: the days of one-cent coins are numbered.

So, what should you do with your pennies before they’re gone? Here’s how to make the most of them, whether you’re looking to declutter, cash in, or even strike it rich with a rare find.

1. Cash Them In

While it might seem tedious, your stash of pennies could be worth more than you think.

• Coin Counting Machines: Many grocery stores offer Coinstar machines, which can count and convert your coins into gift cards or cash. Just be aware that cash redemptions come with a processing fee (about 11.9%), while gift card redemptions are typically fee-free.

• Banks & Credit Unions: Some still accept rolled coins. Call ahead to confirm their policy, as not all branches handle coin deposits.

• Manual Rolling: If you want to avoid fees, grab some coin wrappers and roll them yourself. You’ll need 50 pennies per roll to make 50 cents.

2. Check for Valuable or Rare Pennies

Before you dump them into a coin machine, take a minute to scan for rare or collectible coins. Some pennies could be worth hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars.

Look for:

• Wheat Pennies (1909–1958): Especially 1909-S VDB or 1914-D.

• 1943 Steel Pennies: Made from steel due to WWII copper shortages. Most are common, but copper versions from 1943 are extremely rare.

• Errors & Double Dies: These minting mistakes are often sought after by collectors.

If you think you’ve found something rare, consult a coin dealer or use an online coin value guide.

3. Teach Kids About Saving and Money

Pennies are great teaching tools for young kids just learning about money.

• Use them to explain coin values and practice counting.

• Start a simple savings challenge using a penny jar.

• Talk about the history of currency and how money changes over time.

 4. Find Alternative Uses

Before tossing or cashing them in, consider putting your pennies to artistic use.

• Make a Penny Floor or Tabletop: With a bit of glue and sealant, pennies can be turned into durable and eye-catching designs.

• Craft Projects: Create wall art, mosaics, or jewelry using pennies, especially those with meaningful dates.

• Holiday Décor: Use pennies to craft ornaments, wreaths, or photo frames.

Or, if arts and crafts isn’t your thing, consider melting down copper pennies (once it becomes legal.)

5. Hold on to a Few for History’s Sake

As the penny disappears from circulation, it may become a nostalgic keepsake or collectible. Save a few with unique dates or sentimental value for a future conversation piece or family heirloom.

While the penny may soon be gone from everyday transactions, it’s not entirely worthless. From cashing them in to turning them into conversation pieces, or finding that rare gem in your change, there are plenty of smart and creative ways to put your pennies to use. Just don’t let them sit forgotten. Now’s the perfect time to take inventory, cash in, or get creative.