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Penny FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions or Facts

How many coins does the United States produce in a year?

In 2004, the United States Mint produced approximately 13.6 billion coins for general circulation.1

When were the first Canadian coins made?

In 1858 and were larger than today, a little larger than a 25 cent piece (quarter). The high price of copper forced a reduction to the current size in 1920.1

What is the average life of a coin?

In the U.S., thirty years 1, in Canada 20 years.1

How many pennies give a family in Burkino Faso enough corn for a day?

66 Canadian pennies or 50 U.S. pennies.1

How many pennies provide a chicken to a family in the Ukraine?

150 Canadian pennies and 110 U.S. pennies.1

How many pennies provide an HIV test in Tanzania?

120 Canadian pennies and 100 U.S. pennies.1

© 2008 Mennonite Central Committee
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