The penny was one of the first coins made by the U.S. Mint after its establishment in 1792. The design on the first penny was of a woman with flowing hair symbolizing liberty. The coin was larger and made of pure copper, while today’s smaller coin is made of copper and zinc. Liberty stayed on the penny for more than 60 years.
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the penny, which ceased to be minted for circulation in 2025.
The penny was one of the first coins made by the U.S. Mint after its establishment in 1792. Today, it is made from copper-plated zinc and features President Lincoln on the obverse and the Union Shield on the reverse. The one-cent coin is made exclusively for collectible sets. Learn more.
PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 12, 2025 — The United States Mint (Mint) hosted a ceremonial strike event today at its Philadelphia facility where United States Treasurer Brandon Beach struck the final, circulating one-cent coin (penny). The event marks the official end of the penny’s 232-year production run as a circulating coin.
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