Penny -

: Originally made of pure copper, the penny's metal content was altered to zinc with a copper plating in 1982 to reduce production costs. The Current Debate: Keep or Retire?

: The first pennies, minted until 1857, were much larger than modern versions—exceeding the size of a modern quarter. : Originally made of pure copper, the penny's

There is a long-standing discussion about whether the penny should remain in circulation. Proponents and critics offer the following arguments: Arguments to Retire the Penny : Originally made of pure copper

: The coin is seen as a symbol of American history and a tribute to Abraham Lincoln. minted until 1857