Have You Raided Your Piggy Bank Lately?

By Brad Tuttle | @bradrtuttle | October 7, 2010 | +

Apparently, plenty of Americans have been doing just that. And because of the big influx of old nickels, dimes, and quarters into the system, there’s very little demand for new coins—specifically, the new collectible quarters featuring national parks.

So reports USA Today:

During recessions, cash-strapped consumers raid their piggy banks and other sources of loose change, says Beth Deisher, editor of Coin World magazine. That puts more old quarters into the system, reducing demand for new ones.

Many banks, flush with old quarters, aren’t bothering to stock the new ones. One way you’re guaranteed to get your hands on national parks quarters—thus far featuring Grand Canyon, Hot Springs, Yellowstone, and Yosemite—is to order them from the U.S. Mint, where you’ll pay a premium: Two rolls, or $20 worth of quarters, will run you $32.95.

Related Topics: coins, collectibles, currency, gifts, quarters, recession porn, Saving & Spending

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