Not that it matters much in this context, but here it was up to each member state to decide how long the pre-euro cash can or could be redeemed. Don't think the US would limit the validity or redemption period of coins and notes that are phased out. As for non-cash payments mentioned elsewhere in this topic, yes, it sure is possible to pay small amounts with a phone for example. But that is rather an additional option and will not replace coins in the near future. Or would we be forced to use PayPal only, and with iOS and Android phones only? Christian