How the penny symbolizes the dysfunction of America

About 240 billion pennies are lying around the United States.

View in browser|nytimes.com September 4, 2024 The penny may seem like a harmless coin. But few things symbolize American dysfunction more than the inability to stop minting this worthless currency, Caity Weaver writes in The Times Magazine. U.S. Mint Here's what is behind the "perpetual penny paradox." → Sign Up for The Great Read On weekdays and Sundays, we recommend one piece of exceptional writing from The Times — a narrative or essay that takes you someplace you might not expect to go. Get it in your inbox Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance. You received this message because you signed up for updates from The New York Times. To stop receiving From The Times, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings. To opt out of updates and offers sent from The Athletic, submit a request. Subscribe to The TimesGet The New York Times app Connect with us on: Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018