The Flattened Cent- A Thorough Guide
What is a Flattened Cent?
A flattened cent or pressed penny is a cent that has been transformed by a particular machine. These machines are often found in tourist spots like zoos, museums, amusement parks, and much more.
How it Works
The process of producing a flattened cent is straightforward. You insert a cent into the slot of a flattened cent machine and select the plan you want. Typically, these designs consist of the title of the place, the theme of the attraction, or the attraction’s logo. Then, you turn the crank handle, and the machine pushes the cent between two metal rollers, flattening it while imprinting the design onto it. The consequent cent is distinctive, individualized, and serves as a long-lasting memory of your visit.
Past of Flattened Cents
Flattened pennies have been available for over a century. The initial flattened penny machine was implemented during the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Despite being hand-operated back then and the cost of up to 50 cents to get your penny flattened, the fame of these machines grew. By the mid-twentieth century, they were a prevalent sight in tourist attractions worldwide.
Helpful Hints for Collecting Flattened Cents
If you are interested in collecting flattened cents, here are some helpful tips and tricks to aid you in creating a one-of-a-kind and valuable assortment:
- Plan beforehand – Before visiting a tourist destination, investigate whether they have a flattened cent machine. This way, you can select which designs you want and prepare the cents ahead of time.
- Bring currency – Flattened cent machines usually only take coins, not credit cards or dollars. Bring enough coins to acquire the designs you desire.
- Choose designs carefully – Refrain from acquiring designs that are excessively generic or have no direct connection to the attraction.
- Conserve your collection – Store your flattened cents in a coin collection book, a display cabinet, or a shadow box to keep them protected and organized.
- Trade with other collectors – Go to coin exhibitions, join discussion forums online, or interact with other collectors to trade duplicates or exceptional designs.
FAQs
Q: How do I clean my flattened penny?
A: To remove grime and dust from your flattened penny, utilize a soft-bristled brush and mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh cleaning agents or polishing compounds.
Q: Can I squash anything besides pennies?
A: Yes, some machines are designed to flatten other coins such as dimes or quarters. Check the manual of the apparatus to observe what coins it acknowledges.
Q: Can flattened cents be utilized as legal tender?
A: No, flattened cents are just trinkets and have no monetary worth.
Q: Can I obtain my unique design on a flattened penny?
A: Some flattened penny machines can be personalized for a charge. Contact the apparatus’s owner if you are interested in creating your own design.
Q: Are flattened cents valuable?
A: Flattened cents have no inherent worth, but some collectors deem them precious for their rarity or design. However, a flattened penny’s worth is subjective and hinges on the collector’s proclivities and the coin’s quality.
Conclusion
Flattened cents are a cost-effective and extraordinary way to create custom souvenirs of your travels. Irrespective of whether you are an experienced collector or a first-time squisher, there are numerous designs to select from. Furthermore, with suitable maintenance and conservation, your collection can last a lifetime. Therefore, the next time you encounter a flattened penny machine while touring, give it a try, and create a lasting memory of your visit.