The End Of The Copper Penny: Rising Costs, Environmental Impacts, And Numismatic Value
The production of copper pennies in the United States ended in 1982 due to rising copper costs, environmental concerns, and practical issues. Zinc-plated steel pennies were introduced as a more cost-effective and durable alternative. Copper pennies produced before 1982 have gained numismatic value, while the continued use and utility of pennies in small transactions remain…