There’s been a lot of buzz recently about the end of new penny production in the United States. Other countries have already navigated similar transitions, and now it’s our turn. As always, we want to make sure Nevadans have the information they need to feel confident and prepared.
This page will serve as your central hub for updates, tips, and guidance for both individuals and local businesses. Bookmark it and check back often. We’ll keep it updated as new details emerge.
Last update: December 23, 2025
Important Member Update – GNCU Branches Will No Longer Order or Issue Rolled Pennies
With the U.S. Mint officially ending penny production and the national coin supply shrinking, GNCU branches are no longer able to order or provide rolled pennies. Existing pennies are still legal tender, but they’ll become increasingly difficult to find over time. If you use pennies regularly for cash transactions, please plan ahead.
End of Penny Production
The U.S. Mint officially stopped producing pennies in November 2025. The main reasons are simple:
- It costs more than one cent to make each penny.
- Pennies aren’t used as often in everyday purchases anymore.
Pennies remain legal tender indefinitely, so you can still use them—they’ll just show up less and less in circulation.
What’s Changing
Here’s what you may start to notice:
- Many retailers and financial institutions are updating their systems for a penny-free environment.
- Some states are recommending that businesses round cash totals to the nearest nickel using symmetric rounding, which sometimes rounds up and sometimes rounds down.
Why It Matters
This shift affects cash payments, how businesses set prices, and how taxes are calculated. It’s a big change, and we’ll help you navigate it with confidence.
What’s Happening
Here’s the straightforward version of what’s going on:
• Production is done. Pennies are no longer being minted because they’re costly and inefficient to produce.
• They’re still money. You can use them anywhere cash is accepted, but they’ll become less available over time.
• No national rounding rule. The federal government isn’t mandating a single approach, so states and businesses are shaping their own guidelines.
• Nevada’s stance. Nevada hasn’t issued formal rounding rules yet. However, businesses must calculate sales tax based on the full purchase amount before rounding.
What It Means for Consumers
• Cash transactions may be rounded. Examples:
– $10.02 → $10.00
– $10.03 → $10.05
• It balances out. Symmetric rounding is designed to be fair over time.
• Card and digital payments don’t change. Those transactions will always process the exact amount.
• You can still spend your pennies. Have a jar at home? You can deposit them or use them anywhere cash is accepted.
What It Means for Businesses
• Pricing & Tax Compliance
Nevada requires sales tax to be calculated on the full purchase price before any rounding occurs. Once tax is added, the final cash total can be rounded.
• Best Practices for Businesses
– Use symmetric rounding to stay fair and consistent
– Post clear signage explaining your rounding policy
– Train staff to answer questions confidently
– Keep receipts accurate (show original price, tax, and rounded total)
For detailed guidance, visit the Nevada Department of Taxation.
Background & Context
Why are pennies being phased out?
- They’re expensive. Producing a one-cent coin costs nearly four cents.
- They’re rarely used. Fewer people use cash, and even fewer use pennies.
- Other countries have already done this. Canada and several European nations have successfully implemented rounding systems without disrupting consumers.
How GNCU Supports You
We’re here to make this transition simple and stress-free.
- Up-to-date info. This page will always reflect the latest developments.
- Real examples. We’ll break down rounding scenarios in plain language.
- Member-first mindset. If you have concerns, especially if you rely on cash, reach out. We’ll walk you through your options and help you feel confident.
Helpful Links
