MINT Act of 2025
- Sponsor
- Rep. Lucas, Frank D. [R-OK-3]
- Committees
- Financial Services Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 16, 2025
Bottom line
The MINT Act aims to modernize U.S. coinage by allowing for a more cost-effective 5-cent coin and eliminating the production of the one-cent coin, potentially saving taxpayer money and streamlining currency operations.
What it actually does
This bill proposes to amend title 31 of the U.S. Code to allow for an alternative, potentially cheaper, composition of the 5-cent coin (nickel) and to cease the production of the one-cent coin (penny) for general circulation. It grants the Secretary of the Treasury discretion to determine the new 5-cent coin composition, provided it reduces production costs, and ensures existing pennies remain legal tender.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that the bill will reduce the cost of minting coins, particularly the 5-cent coin, by allowing for alternative, cheaper materials. Eliminating the one-cent coin, which currently costs more to produce than its face value, is seen as a fiscally responsible measure that will save taxpayer money and streamline transactions in an increasingly cashless society.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that eliminating the penny could lead to price rounding up, disproportionately affecting lower-income individuals who rely more on cash. Concerns could also be raised about potential public confusion or resistance to changes in familiar currency, as well as the historical significance and sentimental value of the penny.
The bill is very short and clearly written, making it highly accessible for any reader to understand its core proposals quickly.
Section 2(1)(A), (2)(A), (2)(B), (3) of H.R. 4459, amending 31 U.S.C. 5112(a)(5), (b), (c)
Permitting Alternative Composition for the 5-Cent Coin
This provision amends existing law to allow the 5-cent coin (nickel) to be made from an alternative composition, specifically an inner layer of zinc and an outer layer of nickel, instead of the current copper-nickel alloy. The Secretary of the Treasury is granted authority to prescribe this new composition, provided it reduces production costs and results in a coin weighing between 4 and 6 grams.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this change is a practical measure to reduce the cost of minting nickels, which currently cost more than their face value to produce. This flexibility allows the Treasury to adapt to fluctuating metal prices and save taxpayer money.
Critics contend
Some might express concerns about the durability or public acceptance of a new coin composition, or the potential for initial confusion. However, specific opposition to cost-saving measures for the nickel itself is generally limited.
Tradeoffs
The tradeoff involves balancing the desire for cost reduction in coin production with potential public resistance to changes in familiar currency or concerns about the long-term durability of new materials.
Section 2(1)(B), (2)(C), (4) of H.R. 4459, amending 31 U.S.C. 5112(a)(6), (b), and adding (bb)
Ceasing Production of the One-Cent Coin
This provision mandates that the Secretary of the Treasury cease the production of one-cent coins for general circulation. It explicitly states that all one-cent coins minted before the enactment date will remain legal tender, ensuring their continued use for transactions. The Mint may continue to produce pennies for numismatic (collector) purposes.
Allows the Secretary of the Treasury to continue producing one-cent coins for sale as numismatic items, even after ceasing their production for general circulation.
Section 2(4)(1) of H.R. 4459, adding 31 U.S.C. 5112(bb)(1)
Why it matters:This is standard legislative practice to include exceptions for specialized markets like coin collectors. It's not evasive, but a specific detail that might not be immediately apparent to a casual reader.
Case for: This provision allows the U.S. Mint to continue serving the numismatic community, preserving a historical item for collectors and potentially generating revenue from sales, without undermining the primary goal of ceasing general circulation production.
Case against: Some might argue that if the goal is to eliminate the penny due to cost and obsolescence, continuing any production, even for collectors, slightly dilutes the message or maintains a small overhead. However, this is a very minor point.
Estimated impact: Minimal financial impact, primarily affects coin collectors and the U.S. Mint's numismatic program.