Yes, you can still get pennies at the bank, but you may need to order them in advance
Most banks will give you pennies if you ask, but the process depends on how many you need and whether the branch keeps them in stock. A handful of pennies for a transaction or a roll or two for a project usually works on the spot. Larger quantities—say, $10 or $20 worth—often require you to call ahead or place an order that takes a few days to arrive.
The reason is simple: banks don't stock large quantities of low-value coins the way they stock bills. Pennies take up space, weigh more per dollar than any other coin, and most people don't want them. Your bank may have to order them from the Federal Reserve, which takes time.
If you need coins regularly or in bulk, a coin-counting machine at a grocery store or laundromat may be faster and more practical than a bank trip, though those machines usually charge a fee.
Key Takeaways
- Banks can provide pennies, but small amounts (a roll or two) are usually available on the spot, while larger orders may take several days.
- Call your branch before you go to confirm they have the quantity you need in stock.
- If you need coins regularly, a coin-counting machine at a grocery store or laundromat may be faster, though it charges a percentage fee.
- The Federal Reserve still mints pennies, so they are not disappearing, but individual banks may not keep large supplies on hand.
- You do not need to be a customer of the bank to buy coins from it, though policies vary by branch.
What to expect when you ask for pennies at the branch
Walk in and ask the teller how many pennies they have available. If you need a roll or two (50 pennies per roll), they will usually hand them over without delay. If you need more—say, five rolls or a full box of 2,500 pennies—the teller will either tell you they don't have that many in stock or offer to order them.
Ordering typically takes three to five business days. The bank requests the coins from the Federal Reserve, which ships them to the branch. You will be notified when they arrive, and you pick them up during business hours. Some banks charge a small fee for large orders; others do not. Ask before you order.
Bring cash or a debit card to pay. You are buying coins at face value, so $5 in pennies costs $5. The bank is not selling them at a markup.
How to order coins by phone or online
Call your branch directly and ask to speak with someone in operations or customer service. Tell them what coin and how much you need. They will check inventory and either confirm they can provide it immediately or give you a timeline for an order.
Some larger banks allow you to order coins through their website or mobile app. Look for a "coin order" or "special services" section. Smaller banks and credit unions may only take orders by phone. If you are not sure, call the branch.
When you place an order, ask whether there is a fee and whether you need to be a customer of the bank. Most banks will sell coins to non-customers, but policies vary. Confirm the pickup location and hours before you go.
Alternatives if your bank cannot provide coins quickly
Grocery stores with customer service desks often have coin-counting machines or can exchange bills for rolls of coins. Walmart, Target, and similar retailers sometimes offer this service as well. Call ahead to confirm they have the specific coin you need.
Laundromats and arcades have coin-changing machines that take bills and dispense coins. These machines charge a fee—usually 5 to 10 percent of the amount you exchange—so you lose money on the transaction. Use this option only if you need coins urgently and cannot wait for a bank order.
Coin dealers and numismatic shops buy and sell coins, including circulating pennies. They are more expensive than a bank but may have large quantities on hand. Search online for "coin dealer near me" if you need coins the same day.
Why banks don't keep large supplies of pennies
Pennies are the least profitable coin for banks to handle. A penny weighs 2.5 grams and is worth one cent, so a pound of pennies is worth only about $1.81. By contrast, a pound of quarters is worth about $20. Banks have limited vault space and prioritize coins that move faster and take up less room.
Demand for pennies has also declined as more people use cards and digital payments. Fewer cash transactions mean fewer pennies in circulation, and banks order inventory based on what they expect to dispense. If your branch rarely hands out pennies, they won't stock them.
The Federal Reserve still produces pennies—roughly 7 to 8 billion per year—but they are distributed based on demand from banks. If demand is low in your region, your local branch may not receive regular shipments.
What happens if you need a very large quantity
If you need hundreds of dollars in pennies—for a business, a charity event, or a project—contact your bank's business services department or call the main branch and ask to speak with a manager. Explain what you need and when. Large orders may require advance notice of two weeks or more.
Some banks will special-order coins from the Federal Reserve at no charge if you give them enough time. Others may charge a fee for handling or shipping. Confirm the cost and timeline before you commit.
If your bank cannot meet your timeline, contact other banks in your area or a regional Federal Reserve branch directly. The Federal Reserve has 12 regional banks across the country and handles large coin orders from businesses and institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be a customer of the bank to buy coins?
Most banks will sell coins to anyone, but policies vary by branch. Call ahead and ask. Some branches may require you to have an account; others will not. If your bank refuses, try another bank or a credit union in your area.
Can I exchange paper money for coins without ordering?
Yes, if the branch has coins in stock. Walk in with cash and ask the teller to exchange it for the coin you need. Small amounts (a few dollars) are usually available on the spot. Larger amounts may require an order.
What if the bank says they don't have pennies and can't order them?
This is rare but can happen at very small branches or during periods of high demand. Try another bank, a credit union, or a coin dealer. Grocery stores and laundromats with coin machines are also options, though they charge a fee.
How long does it take to get an order of pennies?
Most orders take three to five business days. The bank requests coins from the Federal Reserve, which ships them to the branch. Very large orders may take longer. Ask for a specific pickup date when you place the order.
Is there a limit to how many coins I can buy?
No hard limit exists, but very large orders may require special handling and advance notice. If you need more than a few hundred dollars in a single coin, call ahead and speak with a manager about timing and any fees.