In 2013, the Royal Canadian Mint ceased the production and distribution of the one-cent coin, better known as the penny. While pennies are no longer in circulation, many Canadians still have them tucked away in jars or drawers. This article will explore creative and practical ways to use your Canadian pennies in 2023, from repurposing them as unique décor to donating them to a worthy cause.
Donate Your Pennies to Charity
One of the most impactful ways to use your Canadian pennies is to donate them to a charitable organization. Many non-profit organizations and schools accept pennies for fundraising drives. By donating your pennies, you can help support causes close to your heart while putting your old coins to good use.
Create Penny Art and Décor
If you have an artistic flair, consider repurposing your pennies as unique art pieces or home décor items. Some creative ideas include:
- Penny Mosaic: Arrange pennies on a canvas or wooden board to create a stunning mosaic. You can use various shades of copper or even paint the pennies different colors to achieve a unique effect.
- Penny Coasters: Glue pennies to a cork or wooden base to create eye-catching coasters that will protect your surfaces while adding a touch of charm to your home.
- Penny Vase: Attach pennies to the exterior of a glass or ceramic vase for a distinctive, textured look.
DIY Penny Jewelry
Another creative way to use your Canadian pennies is to transform them into stylish pieces of jewelry. With a little patience and some basic jewelry-making tools, you can create custom accessories that showcase your love for Canada. Ideas include:
- Penny Pendant Necklace: Drill a small hole in a penny and thread it onto a chain to create a simple yet elegant necklace.
- Penny Earrings: Attach pennies to earring hooks or posts using jewelry glue or jump rings.
- Penny Bracelet: String pennies together using jump rings or wire, and secure them to a bracelet chain.
Educational and Collectible Value
Canadian pennies can have educational and collectible value, especially for children or coin enthusiasts. You can use pennies to teach children about Canadian history and the value of money, or add them to a coin collection as a nostalgic reminder of the past.
Redeem Your Pennies at a Financial Institution
If you prefer to exchange your pennies for cash, some financial institutions may still accept them for deposit or exchange. Contact your local bank or credit union to inquire about their penny policies. Keep in mind that you may need to roll your pennies or separate them into specific denominations before depositing or exchanging them.
Create a Penny Souvenir
Commemorate a special event, such as a wedding or anniversary, by using pennies from the year of the occasion. Frame a penny alongside a photo or other memorabilia, or incorporate it into a custom keepsake that you can cherish for years to come.
Conclusion
Although Canadian pennies are no longer in circulation, there are numerous creative and practical ways to use them in 2023. From donating them to charity and creating one-of-a-kind art pieces to exchanging them for cash, these old coins can still serve a purpose and provide a lasting connection to Canada’s history.
“Typical beer trailblazer. Hipster-friendly web buff. Certified alcohol fanatic. Internetaholic. Infuriatingly humble zombie lover.”
Leave a Reply