History of Penny in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: November 13, 2025

A penny is a small-denomination coin or currency unit used in several countries, originating from the Carolingian denarius. It represents the smallest value within a currency system. The British penny (p) and the American one-cent coin (¢) serve as current examples. It's a widely recognized and essential element of monetary systems.

1960: Use of British coin denominations in South Africa until 1960

The size and denomination of the 1816 British coins, with the exception of the four-penny coins, were used in South Africa until 1960.

1982: Marking of British coins as "new penny"

In 1982, following decimalization, British coins were marked as "new penny".

1985: Marking of Irish coins as "new penny"

In 1985, following decimalization, Irish coins were marked as "new penny".

1992: Change in composition of UK one- and two-penny coins

In the UK, since 1992, one- and two-penny coins have been made from copper-plated steel instead of bronze.

2012: Canada adopted 5¢ as its lowest denomination

In 2012, Canada adopted 5¢ as its lowest denomination.

2012: End of Canadian penny production

In 2012, the production of the Canadian penny ended.

2013: Withdrawal of Canadian penny from circulation

In 2013, the Canadian penny was withdrawn from circulation.

2025: Last production of penny for general circulation

The penny was last produced for general circulation in 2025. It will continue to be minted for collectors and historic purposes, and it remains legal tender and in circulation.