That represents nearly two-thirds of the 50 cent piece's buying power. And its price has increased by more than 30% since the 2023 fiscal year, when the coin's production cost was just under 26 cents.

How much it takes US to mint one penny coin? Each penny costs nearly 4 cents — or $0.0369, to be exact — for the US Mint to make and distribute, according to the 2024 annual report by the US Mint.