The Brian Lehrer Show Penny For Your Thoughts on the End of the Penny
Nov 14, 2025
The U.S. Mint has made its last penny, sparking a lively discussion among listeners. Callers share quirky phrases to replace the penny while reminiscing about its significance. One highlights its role in collecting sales tax, while another fondly recalls a unique penny collection. Hilarious jokes emerge, such as renaming cultural references like Penny Lane. A touching moment arrives as a listener honors his father's memory by naming his dog Penny. Light-hearted songs and reflections around the penny's legacy create a bittersweet farewell.
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Penny Production Stopped For Cost Reasons
- The U.S. Treasury stopped minting pennies because each penny costs more than three cents to produce.
- That financial inefficiency prompted a decision to end new penny production once supplies deplete.
Create New Phrases To Replace Penny Idioms
- Brian invited listeners to invent replacements for penny-based phrases like "a penny for your thoughts."
- He encouraged creative substitutions (e.g., "a nickel for your thoughts") during the short segment.
Callers Share Humorous And Fond Memories
- Bill sang a parody lyric mourning the penny: "Every time it rains, it rains. Nothing from heaven. Because there are no pennies."
- Dino called the penny the hardest working coin, noting it collected sales tax over many purchases.