North America Considers the Penny

It is coming up to ten years since Canada removed its 1 cent coin, or penny, from circulation.

A recent survey by Research Co found that 71% of the public do not miss the Canadian penny. Those aged 35-64 years old miss it most, with only 65% supporting its abolition, compared with older people, who were 72% in favour.

British Colombia was most wedded to the penny, again with 65% supporting its abolition compared with the 71% average.

Focus has now moved to the 5 cent (nickel) coin, with support for its removal increasing by 4 points since the last poll in 2019, now at 40%. One explanation for this is to do with the purchasing power of the coin, particularly as inflation rates rise.