Good Day, This is the first time I am posting in the Canada forum but this is where I feel this belongs. Let me first say I absolutely love the Canadian Penny. I was sad to read a few months back of the Royal mints decision to stop the production of the canadian penny. With this said, I am going on vacation the end of June to Canada to visit Niagara Falls and Quebec for a week. While I am there I wanted to get as many Canadian Pennies as possible but wasnt sure of the availability of them as of yet. Can anyone tell me if the stores are still giving them out in change or if I go into a local bank will they exchange some for canadian dollars or have they begun the transfer to the Royal mint for melting. All responses are appreciated. John
"The Royal Canadian Mint will cease distribution of pennies to financial institutions on February 4, 2013. On this date, businesses will be encouraged to stop using pennies and begin rounding cash transactions in a fair and transparent manner. As financial institutions will no longer be receiving pennies from the Mint, they may not distribute pennies to consumers and businesses after February 4, 2013." (http://www.mint.ca/store/mint/learn/phasing-out-the-penny-6900002#.UX7UJ0pgXyY) Businesses are still allowed to accept & give them out in change, but it's up to the business. I mentioned in another thread that a business by me was accepting them but only giving them out if someone asked for. So, I'd say if you're in a store feel free to ask. Worst they can say is no. Have a great vacation!
I live in the NE US and I still occasionally receive Canadian Pennies in Circulation. Just yesterday I received a 1974.
