The Penny is Dead. Here's What It Really Means for Your Money

The U.S. Mint just produced its final penny on November 12th—and honestly? Most people won’t even notice.

Think about it: when was the last time you actually used a penny? For most of us, it’s been years. A coin that costs 3.69 cents to make but is worth only 1 cent? The math doesn’t work. Trump’s call to end penny production makes perfect sense.

But here’s the real wake-up call—the penny didn’t die because of bureaucratic inefficiency. It died because of inflation.

Over two centuries, the penny gradually became worthless. And that same force is quietly eating away at the cash in your wallet right now.

Why This Should Matter to You

Inflation hit 9.1% in 2022. Even at the Federal Reserve’s target of 2% annually, your money loses purchasing power year after year. If your savings aren’t growing faster than inflation, you’re essentially getting poorer.

Think of it this way: your paycheck stays the same, but groceries, rent, and gas keep climbing. That’s inflation at work.

How to Protect Your Wealth

High-yield savings accounts now offer 4-5% interest rates—enough to offset inflation’s bite.

Stocks historically return ~7% after inflation, making them a long-term wealth builder. Even $50 gets you started.

TIPS (Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities) automatically adjust as prices rise—a safe hedge.

Increase your income faster than inflation does. Negotiate raises, build skills, start a side gig.

The penny’s disappearance is just a symptom. The real question: is your money working hard enough to outpace rising costs? If not, it’s time to make a move.