Penny production ends in 2026, threatening Bay Area souvenir business

In the United States, Matt Sengbusch operates a business centered around penny pressing machines in the Bay Area, with the most popular machine located on Pier 39. As of May 2025, the U.S. Mint announced it had ordered its last stock of copper to produce pennies, a decision stemming from cost concerns voiced by President Donald Trump. This change is significant as it signifies the end of the penny's physical production by 2026. Sengbusch, who utilizes more than 50 machines that convert coins into unique souvenirs, indicated that the move from producing pennies would affect not only his business but also the broader culture and tradition surrounding coin-operated machines. While he notes that the production halt will potentially lead to a scarcity of pennies, he expresses concern about losing a key aspect of American history. In anticipation of this drastic change, Sengbusch is exploring alternatives, such as purchasing copper blanks to continue serving his customers. Until the penny is entirely taken out of circulation, he intends to keep using them. The impending discontinuation of the penny represents not only a loss for businesses that rely on them for operations but also signifies a shift in American currency philosophy, where the interest in saving on production costs conflicts with longstanding traditions.