As of 2025, the cost to produce a U.S. 1-cent coin (penny) was reported to be approximately 4 cents, exceeding the coin's 1-cent face value.
November 12, 2025
high
temporal
Per-unit production cost compared to face value.
As of 2025, reported per-coin production costs for other U.S. coins were roughly: nickel about 14 cents, dime less than 6 cents, and quarter nearly 15 cents.
November 12, 2025
high
temporal
Comparative production costs for common U.S. circulating coins.
The Bureau of Engraving and Printing produces U.S. paper currency, while the U.S. Mint (part of the U.S. Department of the Treasury) produces commemorative coins.
high
temporal
Division of production responsibilities within the U.S. Treasury for currency versus commemorative coinage.