The penny has been in Americans’ pockets since 1793. But after Nov. 12, the U.S. Mint says it’s done making the iconic coin, largely because each one costs more than it’s worth. Economists say shoppers may barely notice its disappearance.

“It’s just a sweet way to connect and kind of get to hear about who they’re making it for, why they’re making it, you know, even just ask how their day is going; get to form connections with people,” Starnes said.