Common Cents Act

This legislation mandates that the Secretary of the Treasury discontinue the production of one-cent coins for general circulation. While general circulation pennies will cease, the Secretary retains the authority to produce one-cent coins specifically for sale as numismatic items. Significantly, all one-cent coins minted and issued prior to the enactment of this measure will continue to be recognized as legal tender for all debts, public charges, taxes, and dues. Furthermore, the bill modifies the specifications for the five-cent coin by amending title 31, United States Code. It permits the five-cent coin to be composed of an inner layer of zinc and an outer layer of nickel. The Secretary is granted discretion to determine the precise composition of these materials, with the primary objective of reducing the cost incurred to produce such coins.