I promise you’ll never think of the song “Pennies From Heaven” in quite the same way after you’ve heard some of the places one cent coins have been; and John Oliver thinks it’s time we get rid of the pesky coin that costs more to make than it’s worth.
At one time, pennies were good for making change, and for buying penny candy. These days, some retailers refuse to accept the coins, and the coins are of so little value that many people admit to throwing them in the garbage. As John points out, pennies seem to be good for only two things: making a wish in a fountain, and paying fines out of spite. The latter never gets old – but if you’re irked enough you can use nickles. I’m confident we will learn to adapt. Pennies have reportedly made their way into the digestive tracts of dogs – accidentally, and the nether regions of humans – intentionally. Consider this a PSA for frequent and timely hand-washing.
Why do we cling to the coin no one wants, that costs us money to make? Blame it on the lyrically titled ‘Americans for Common Cents’ who protest that no one will contribute to charity if the penny becomes passe’ – which tells us more about their spirit of giving than perhaps they had intended!