Stop the US Mint from eliminating the penny

Recent signers:
Cameron McElroy and 15 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Abraham Lincoln stands as a towering figure in America's history, not just for preserving the Union during the Civil War, but most importantly, for his unwavering commitment to ending the abhorrent institution of slavery. For countless Americans, this dedication is symbolized through his profile displayed prominently on the humble penny. The penny, a small yet significant emblem, reminds us daily of Lincoln's courage, integrity, and compassion despite its seemingly modest value.

Since learning about his pivotal role in history, Abe Lincoln has been a personal hero of mine. The thought that the face of a man who championed freedom could be booted from circulation to save a few cents is beyond baffling to me. It feels like erasing part of our heritage, a critical story that represents triumph over one of humanity's greatest atrocities. How dare they take that away from us? How dare they overlook the everyday significance of such a token?

Critics argue that the penny is a costly and outdated currency, pointing to facts like it costs 2.1 cents to manufacture a single penny. But compounding the value of pennies in justifying their removal overlooks the intangible worth – the reverence of a figure who symbolizes core American principles. The cost savings brought about would be marginal in the grand fiscal scheme of the US, hardly transforming budgets or economics. On the other hand, losing a timeless symbol from day-to-day life has cultural costs we dare not pay.

Rather than doing away with pennies, we can explore innovative solutions for their manufacture – reducing production costs without sacrificing their existence. Recycling efforts or utilizing more cost-effective materials can help sustain the penny economically. We should leverage technological advancements to preserve traditions that hold profound historical significance.

Sign this petition to urge the US Mint and government officials to halt the process of phasing out the penny. Remind them of the principles Lincoln stood for and the invaluable lessons of our past embedded on each tiny copper disk. Let's honor history by ensuring it thrives amidst progress, not vanishes into obscurity. Join me in this cause today.

16

Recent signers:
Cameron McElroy and 15 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Abraham Lincoln stands as a towering figure in America's history, not just for preserving the Union during the Civil War, but most importantly, for his unwavering commitment to ending the abhorrent institution of slavery. For countless Americans, this dedication is symbolized through his profile displayed prominently on the humble penny. The penny, a small yet significant emblem, reminds us daily of Lincoln's courage, integrity, and compassion despite its seemingly modest value.

Since learning about his pivotal role in history, Abe Lincoln has been a personal hero of mine. The thought that the face of a man who championed freedom could be booted from circulation to save a few cents is beyond baffling to me. It feels like erasing part of our heritage, a critical story that represents triumph over one of humanity's greatest atrocities. How dare they take that away from us? How dare they overlook the everyday significance of such a token?

Critics argue that the penny is a costly and outdated currency, pointing to facts like it costs 2.1 cents to manufacture a single penny. But compounding the value of pennies in justifying their removal overlooks the intangible worth – the reverence of a figure who symbolizes core American principles. The cost savings brought about would be marginal in the grand fiscal scheme of the US, hardly transforming budgets or economics. On the other hand, losing a timeless symbol from day-to-day life has cultural costs we dare not pay.

Rather than doing away with pennies, we can explore innovative solutions for their manufacture – reducing production costs without sacrificing their existence. Recycling efforts or utilizing more cost-effective materials can help sustain the penny economically. We should leverage technological advancements to preserve traditions that hold profound historical significance.

Sign this petition to urge the US Mint and government officials to halt the process of phasing out the penny. Remind them of the principles Lincoln stood for and the invaluable lessons of our past embedded on each tiny copper disk. Let's honor history by ensuring it thrives amidst progress, not vanishes into obscurity. Join me in this cause today.

The Decision Makers

Kristie McNally
Kristie McNally
Director of US Mint

Supporter Voices

Petition Updates

Share this petition

Petition created on May 30, 2025