6 Surprising Ways to Profit From the End of the Penny

A Penny Worth Millions?
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President Trump has instructed the U.S. government to stop minting pennies. Experts say that in response to Trump’s order, the Treasury Department may simply stop minting copper coins.

While most people won’t miss these tiny coins, others see an opportunity.

Whether you have jars full of pennies or want to take advantage of this shift, there are ways to turn this change into real money. Here are six surprising ways you can profit from the penny’s demise.

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1. Sell rare and valuable pennies

change jar
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Some pennies are worth far more than one cent. Rare coins, such as pre-1982 copper pennies, error coins, or limited-edition designs, can sell for significantly more to collectors. The demand for these coins could rise now that pennies are no longer being minted.

Check your change jar for valuable finds—especially wheat pennies, 1943 steel cents, and misprinted coins. Online marketplaces like eBay and coin dealer websites can help you cash in on your collection.

Investing in alternative assets may be worth considering if you’re looking for new ways to grow your wealth beyond rare coins.

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2. Melt down copper pennies (when it becomes legal)

Woman with small coin purse
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Pennies minted before 1982 are 95% copper, making them worth more in raw metal than their face value. While melting pennies is illegal, that could change now that they’re being phased out.

If the government lifts the ban, copper prices could make these old pennies a valuable commodity. Holding onto pre-1982 pennies could be a wise investment, as their intrinsic value may rise over time.

Pro Tip: Investing in metals is a time-tested strategy for wealth preservation. Protect your wealth with an asset that can hedge against the damaging effects of a recession and financial calamity by opening a gold IRA.

3. Cash in on penny-themed collectibles

Penny
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Whenever a piece of American history disappears, nostalgia and collectibility surge. From penny-press souvenirs to commemorative sets, items featuring pennies may soon become more desirable.

Consider collecting or selling old penny-related memorabilia, such as framed penny displays, vintage coin books, or even penny-covered home decor. As the penny fades from circulation, these items may fetch higher prices.

Like collectibles, maximizing the return on your investments can be an effective way to build financial stability.

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4. Use cash transactions to round up in your favor

store cash register
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With pennies disappearing, businesses may round cash transactions to the nearest nickel—sometimes in your favor. These small savings may not seem like much, but over time, even minor cost reductions can add up.

The same applies to everyday expenses like your cell phone bill. Many people overpay for service without realizing better deals exist. Small savings, whether from rounding or reducing bills, can free up cash for more important financial goals.

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5. Flip rolls of pennies for a profit

Rolls of quarters and coins
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As pennies become less common, demand for old rolls of them could increase among collectors and nostalgic buyers. People may be willing to pay more than face value for neatly rolled pennies, especially if they contain older or rarer coins.

Banks may soon stop distributing pennies, so those who stockpile rolls now could potentially sell them later at a premium.

Selling penny rolls is one option for turning small assets into cash, but for larger financial needs, tapping into your home’s equity could provide faster, more significant funds.

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6. Invest in alternative small-denomination coins

Stacking coins
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With the penny disappearing, attention may shift to nickels, dimes, and other small-denomination coins. Some collectors and investors speculate that nickels—particularly those with high metal content—could be the next undervalued currency to rise in worth.

Observing how the market reacts to the penny’s exit may open up new opportunities in coin collecting and metal investing.

Staying informed about financial opportunities can help you make better investment decisions.

Pro Tip: If you have over $150,000 in savings, consider talking to a professional financial advisor. Zoe Financial is a free service that will match you with a pro in your area.

Small change, big opportunity

couple saving coins
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While the penny may disappear, creative thinkers can still find ways to turn this transition into profit.

Whether you’re a collector, investor, or just someone looking to round up a little extra cash, there are plenty of ways to benefit from this shift. The key is recognizing the value in what others overlook.

Maximizing savings doesn’t stop with small changes—taking advantage of discounts and making smart financial choices can help you keep even more money in your pocket.

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