: Originally made of pure copper, the penny's metal content was altered to zinc with a copper plating in 1982 to reduce production costs. The Current Debate: Keep or Retire?
: The coin is seen as a symbol of American history and a tribute to Abraham Lincoln. : Originally made of pure copper, the penny's
The U.S. penny has undergone significant design and material changes since its inception: : Originally made of pure copper
: Many charities rely on "penny drives" to raise substantial funds through small, effortless donations. effortless donations. : In 1909
: In 1909, the U.S. Mint redesigned the coin to honor President Abraham Lincoln's 100th birthday, marking the first time a real person appeared on a regular-issue U.S. coin.
: Eliminating it could lead to "rounding up" prices, potentially impacting low-income households.