A box of pennies from the bank holds 50 rolls and costs $25
When you order a box of pennies from your bank, you receive 50 rolls, each containing 50 pennies. That adds up to 2,500 pennies, or $25 in face value. You pay the bank $25 for the box — the same amount the pennies are worth. There is no markup, no fee, and no discount. The bank is simply converting cash from one form (bills or account balance) into another (rolled coins).
Most banks will order coin boxes for you if they do not have them in stock. The order usually arrives within a few business days, though some branches keep common denominations like pennies on hand. Call your branch first to ask whether they have penny boxes available now, or whether you need to place an order.
Key Takeaways
- A standard box of pennies contains 50 rolls of 50 pennies each, totaling 2,500 pennies or $25.
- You pay the face value of the coins — $25 for a penny box — with no additional bank fees.
- Not all branches stock coin boxes, so call ahead to confirm availability or place an order.
- You can also request penny rolls without buying a full box if you need fewer coins.
What you need to bring to the bank
Bring cash or be prepared to withdraw from your account. If you have an account at the bank, you can simply ask the teller to deduct $25 from your checking or savings account and hand you the penny box. If you do not have an account or prefer to pay in cash, bring $25 in bills.
You do not need an ID or any special paperwork. The transaction is straightforward: you give the bank $25, and they give you the box. Some banks may ask for your account number if you are a customer, but that is routine.
Ordering ahead vs. walking in
If your branch keeps penny boxes in the vault, you may be able to walk out with one the same day. However, many branches do not stock large quantities of rolled coins, especially pennies. Calling ahead takes five minutes and saves you a wasted trip.
When you call, ask whether the branch has penny boxes in stock right now. If not, ask how long an order takes — most banks can get one to you within two to five business days. Some branches will hold the box at the counter under your name once it arrives, so you can pick it up at your convenience.
Other coin denominations and quantities
Banks sell rolled coins in standard boxes for all denominations. A box of nickels contains 40 rolls (2,000 nickels, or $100). A box of dimes holds 50 rolls (5,000 dimes, or $500). A box of quarters contains 40 rolls (4,000 quarters, or $1,000). The pattern is the same: you pay the face value of the coins, nothing more.
If you need fewer coins than a full box, most banks will sell you individual rolls. A single roll of pennies costs 50 cents. You can buy one roll, five rolls, or any quantity that works for you — the bank will not force you to buy a full box.
Why banks charge face value
Banks do not profit from selling you rolled coins. They charge exactly what the coins are worth because they are simply handling and packaging coins that already exist in the money supply. The cost to the bank is the labor of rolling and boxing, which is absorbed into their general operating expenses. The price you pay reflects the actual value of the metal and currency you are receiving.
This is different from a coin dealer or collector, who may charge a premium for rare or special coins. A bank is selling you standard circulating pennies at their face value, so there is no markup.
When you might need a box of pennies
Businesses that handle cash — laundromats, arcades, parking meters, vending machines — often need large quantities of coins to make change. If you run a small business or operate coin-operated equipment, ordering penny boxes from your bank is the standard way to restock.
Some people also order coin boxes to sort and organize loose change, or to prepare for a specific event where they know they will need coins. Whatever your reason, the process is the same: call your branch, confirm availability, and pick up or have the box delivered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order a penny box online or by phone without visiting the bank?
Most banks require you to order in person or by phone, then pick up at the branch. Some larger banks may deliver to your account if you are a customer, but this varies. Call your branch to ask whether they offer delivery or mail options for coin orders.
What if my bank does not have penny boxes?
If your bank cannot order them, try a different branch of the same bank, or contact a larger bank in your area. Credit unions and community banks typically stock coin boxes as well. As a last resort, a coin dealer or numismatic shop can sell you rolled pennies, though they may charge above face value.
Do I need to be a customer of the bank to buy a box of pennies?
Most banks will sell coin boxes to anyone, whether or not you have an account. However, policies vary by bank and branch. Call ahead and ask — some branches may require you to be a customer, while others will sell to anyone who walks in with cash.
Can I return a box of pennies if I change my mind?
Yes. If you have not opened or damaged the box, most banks will take it back and refund your $25. Bring the box and your receipt if you have one. If you opened the box and spent some of the pennies, the bank will still accept the loose coins, but you will receive only the face value of what you return.
How long does it take to get a penny box if I order one?
If the branch has penny boxes in stock, you can leave with one the same day. If they need to order, most banks receive shipments within two to five business days. Some branches will call you when the box arrives, while others will hold it at the counter for you to pick up.