Common Cents Act: Will Pennies Disappear? Nickel Costs Rise

Lawmakers are considering the "Common Cents Act," a proposed bill that could end penny production and change the metallic makeup of nickels. Rising minting costs drive the proposed legislation.

Currently, producing a single five-cent nickel costs more than 13 cents. A 12% increase in the cost of acquiring nickel since the start of the year contributes to this expense, prompting discussions about continuing current coin production methods.

The act's potential to end penny production would represent a significant shift in U.S. currency. Changes to the nickel's composition could affect its durability and appearance, though specific metallic alterations remain unreleased.