History of Penny in Timeline

The penny, a coin often representing the smallest denomination in a currency system, traces its roots to the Carolingian denarius. Today, it's formally used in Britain (p) and informally in the US (¢) and Ireland (€1 cent). Due to inflation, pennies hold minimal purchasing power, posing a cost burden to various entities like businesses and governments.

1960: British coin sizes used in South Africa

In 1960, the sizes and denominations of British coins introduced in 1816 were still being used in South Africa, with the exception of the four-penny coins.

1982: British coins marked 'new penny'

In 1982, British coins continued to be marked with 'new penny' following the decimalization process.

1985: Irish coins marked 'new penny'

In 1985, Irish coins were marked with 'new penny' as part of the decimalization effort.

1990: New Zealand demonetises one-cent coins

In 1990, New Zealand officially demonetised one-cent coins, removing them from circulation.

1992: Australia withdraws one-cent coins

In 1992, Australia withdrew one-cent coins from circulation, making them no longer a part of daily use.

1992: UK changes composition of penny coins

Since 1992, the UK has made one- and two-penny coins from copper-plated steel, making them magnetic, instead of bronze.

2012: Canada adopts 5¢ as lowest denomination

In 2012, Canada adopted 5¢ as its lowest denomination, reflecting a shift in coin usage practices.

2012: Canada removes one-cent coins from circulation

In 2012, Canada decided to remove one-cent coins from circulation, marking an end to the usage of pennies in everyday transactions.

Mentioned in this timeline

New Zealand is an island country in the southwestern Pacific...

Africa is the second-largest and second-most populous continent comprising of...

Australia officially the Commonwealth of Australia encompasses the Australian mainland...

Canada is North America's northernmost country stretching from the Atlantic...

South Africa officially the Republic of South Africa RSA is...

Copper Cu with atomic number is a reddish-orange metal known...