Where Can I Buy Pressed Pennies?
Pressed pennies, also known as elongated coins, are a popular collectible item for many individuals. These unique souvenirs can be found in various locations around the world, providing a tangible memory of your visit. If you’re wondering where to buy pressed pennies, read on to discover some of the best places to find these cherished keepsakes.
1. Amusement Parks and Theme Parks: One of the most common places to find pressed pennies is at amusement parks and theme parks. These locations often have multiple penny press machines scattered throughout the park, each with its own unique designs.
2. Museums: Many museums offer pressed pennies as a way to commemorate your visit. These elongated coins often feature designs related to the exhibits or themes of the museum.
3. Tourist Attractions: Popular tourist attractions, such as landmarks, historical sites, and natural wonders, frequently have penny press machines available. These machines offer an opportunity to take home a personalized souvenir of your visit.
4. Zoos and Aquariums: Zoos and aquariums are another great place to find pressed pennies. These locations often have machines with animal-themed designs, making them a favorite among collectors.
5. Coin Shops: Some coin shops specialize in selling pressed pennies. These stores may have a wide selection of elongated coins from various locations, making it a convenient option for collectors looking to expand their collection.
6. Online Auctions: Online auction platforms like eBay offer a vast range of pressed pennies for sale. This option allows collectors to browse through an extensive selection and find rare or unique designs that may not be available elsewhere.
7. Flea Markets and Antique Shops: Flea markets and antique shops can be a treasure trove for collectors. These venues often have vendors selling vintage elongated coins, providing an opportunity to discover hidden gems.
8. National Parks: Many national parks have penny press machines located at visitor centers or other key areas. These machines often feature designs specific to the park, allowing visitors to take home a memento of their outdoor adventure.
9. Botanical Gardens: Botanical gardens often offer pressed pennies with floral or nature-inspired designs. These souvenirs are a beautiful way to remember your visit to these serene locations.
10. Transportation Hubs: Airports, train stations, and bus terminals sometimes have penny press machines available. These machines may feature designs related to the city or region, offering a unique souvenir for travelers.
11. Resort Areas: Resorts located in popular vacation destinations often have penny press machines on their premises. These machines may feature designs related to the resort or the surrounding area, making them a sought-after collectible for tourists.
12. Specialty Stores: Certain stores specialize in selling pressed pennies from various locations worldwide. These establishments offer a wide selection of elongated coins, catering to the needs of passionate collectors.
Common Questions about Pressed Pennies:
1. How much do pressed pennies cost?
Pressed pennies typically cost around $0.50 to $1.00 per coin, depending on the location and design.
2. Can I use any penny to make a pressed penny?
Yes, most penny press machines accept any standard penny as long as it meets the required size and weight specifications.
3. Are pressed pennies legal?
Yes, pressing pennies is legal as long as you are not altering the coin’s denomination or attempting to defraud anyone.
4. Can I press my own pennies at home?
While there are machines available for home use, it’s generally recommended to visit authorized penny press machines to ensure high-quality and authentic elongated coins.
5. Are pressed pennies valuable?
The value of pressed pennies is mostly sentimental. However, some rare or limited-edition designs may hold higher value among collectors.
6. Can I clean my pressed pennies?
It’s generally advised not to clean pressed pennies, as cleaning solutions or abrasive materials can damage the design or the coin itself.
7. How can I display my pressed penny collection?
There are various ways to display pressed pennies, including coin albums, frames, or shadow boxes specifically designed for elongated coins.
8. Are pressed pennies only available in the United States?
No, pressed pennies can be found in many countries around the world. Different countries may have different coin denominations used for pressing.
9. Can I use other coins besides pennies?
While the name suggests using pennies, many machines also accept quarters or other coin denominations to create elongated coins.
10. Are there any special techniques for using penny press machines?
Using penny press machines is fairly straightforward. Simply insert your coin, choose a design, and turn the crank to create your pressed penny.
11. Can I trade pressed pennies with other collectors?
Yes, trading pressed pennies with other collectors is a common practice among enthusiasts. Online forums and collector gatherings are great places to connect with other collectors.
12. Can I request custom designs for pressed pennies?
Some penny press machines offer the option to create custom designs, allowing you to personalize your pressed penny with names, dates, or specific images.
In conclusion, pressed pennies can be purchased from various locations, including amusement parks, museums, tourist attractions, online auctions, and specialty stores. These unique souvenirs hold sentimental value for collectors and serve as a tangible memory of their visits to different places.