The Last Penny: A Rare Coin Sells for $16.7 Million
In a recent auction, a set of rare pennies from the final minting of the US penny has sold for a staggering $16.76 million. The auction, held by Stack's Bowers Galleries in California, featured 232 sets of three coins each, including a 2025 penny from the Philadelphia Mint, a 24-karat gold penny from the same mint, and a 2025-D penny from the Denver Mint. The coins were embossed with the omega symbol "Ω", marking the final run of the coin first minted in 1793.
Each set of three coins sold for an average of over $72,000, with the final set, No. 232, selling for a remarkable $800,000. This set included the very last circulating pennies from Philadelphia and Denver, as well as the final gold omega penny. The sale was an honor, according to Stack's Bowers Galleries President Brian Kendrella, who expressed his excitement at partnering with the United States Mint to offer these numismatic rarities to collectors.
The Mint's acting director, Kristie McNally, also shared her enthusiasm, stating that the sale celebrates 232 years of the penny's history. She emphasized the significance of the penny's longevity, having withstood the test of time through the nation's history. The minting of pennies has been halted due to cost concerns, with President Donald Trump previously instructing the Secretary of the Treasury to stop production. The federal government's annual report revealed a loss of $85.3 million in the fiscal year 2024 from penny production.
Despite the halt, existing pennies will remain in circulation, ensuring that the legacy of this iconic coin continues. The auction's success highlights the value of rare and historical coins, attracting collectors and enthusiasts alike. This sale serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of numismatic collectibles and the importance of preserving our nation's monetary history.
