Is It Worth Picking Up Pennies from the Ground?
When it comes to picking up pennies from the ground, the old adage 'a penny saved is a penny earned' might not apply in the same way it once did. In countries like Canada, the penny has exited circulation, but in others, it still remains a common denominator in daily transactions. Let's explore the merits of picking up pennies, weighing the effort against the reward, and the cultural impact of such a gesture.
The Value of Pennies in Modern Times
Back in the day, pennies were everywhere, and picking them up from the ground was a common practice. However, with changes in currency systems and the devaluation of the penny, it's worth considering whether the effort of picking them up still justifies the outcome. In Canada, for example, pennies were removed from circulation in February 2013, and they are no longer in circulation in the U.S., although some are still found in older buildings or in the form of hoarded collections.
Why You Might Pick Up Pennies
No matter what way a penny is facing, its value remains the same. However, the decision to pick one up or leave it behind hinges on several factors:
1. The Tradition of Good Luck
The age-old saying "see a penny, pick it up, all day long you'll have good luck" is still a prevalent meme in many cultures. Some people believe that picking up a penny right side up brings good luck, while others think that picking it up headside up brings you success, and tailside up brings you happiness. Not only is this a fun belief, but it also adds a touch of whimsy to daily activities.
2. Coin Collecting
For those passionate about coin collecting, pennies can be a fascinating treasure to add to their collection. Specifically, rare pennies, such as the 1909-S VDB penny, can fetch significantly higher prices. However, it's important to note that the vast majority of pennies found on the ground are not rare, and hence, it could be argued that the effort of picking them up doesn't outweigh the reward. But for the true collector, every coin has its own story.
3. Practical Collecting
Some people might collect pennies as a way to fill odd-shaped jars or as a quirky home decor item. A large green glass jar can make an attractive and unconventional display, and over time, these pennies can add up to a formidable sum. For instance, collecting pennies over 18 years can lead to a considerable amount, as one person mentions finding over $270, not including other coins and notes.
4. Economic Impact
There is a certain belief that the practice of picking up pennies contributes to the economy and the health of the currency. It might seem like an insignificant gesture, but collectively, finding and keeping loose change can save the government money on waste management and recycling. However, this impact is minimal in a country where pennies are no longer in circulation, such as Canada where the government has to account for the nearly $675 million worth of pennies that have been removed from circulation.
What People Think About Picking Up Pennies
For those of us who grew up with the deduction that picking up a penny could yield a day of good luck, it remains a cultural tradition. But for many, the effort of stooping down to pick up something as small as a penny may not be worth the physical strain. On the other hand, for coin collectors and those who see psychological or economic benefits in the practice, collecting loose change is a hobby and a way of life.
One factor to consider is whether accumulating more pennies is actually beneficial. In the U.S., for example, many vending machines and parking meters no longer accept pennies, meaning that keeping them around may not yield the same utility that it did in the past.
The following discussion offers insights from various viewpoints:
No, Not Worth It
Some argue that it's not worth picking up pennies because they serve little practical use. Picking them up is simply not something people are inclined to do, given their low value. Furthermore, people who hoard pennies are often seen as shallow for focusing on trivial matters.
Yes, Worth It
Others believe in the tradition of picking up pennies for good luck and the joy of collecting coins. For these individuals, the reward of a lucky day or a colorful jar full of coins outweighs the minimal physical effort required.
Blending Tradition and Practicality
Combining the two viewpoints, one might argue that while picking up pennies might not be as practical in today's world, it can still be a fun and engaging hobby. It's a way to connect with history, collect unique coins, and perhaps even contribute to the economy through collective savings.
In conclusion, whether or not to pick up a penny depends on personal preferences, cultural beliefs, and practical needs. The practice of picking up pennies from the ground is a reflection of the cultural and economic values of a society, and it's a decision that each individual must make based on their own standards and beliefs.