Cent-imental musings
Editor:
The Canadian Mint has decided to stop making pennies because they cost more to make than they’re worth.
That is going to have serious repercussions in the English language. Even though everything is more expensive than it used to be, it will no longer “cost a pretty penny,” not even if a generous friend or relative (or even the government) unexpectedly gives you “pennies from heaven.” No matter how frugal one is, we’ll no longer be able to “pinch pennies,” or claim that “a penny saved is a penny earned.” And it makes no difference what your opinion is, you won’t be able to “give your two cents’ worth.” I will no longer be able to offer you “a penny for your thoughts.” Nor will we be able to refuse to pay “one red cent” for anything we consider of little value.
Sadder still, what will happen when the Mint inevitably chooses to bring an end to the nickel?
And when the dime eventually meets its demise, will inexpensive things still be “a dime a dozen,” or won’t they even “be worth a dime”? Will there be more traffic accidents when cars won’t be able to “stop (or turn) on a dime”?
Am I being too “cent-imental”? One thing’s for sure. Even when all these coins disappear, the government will still “nickel and dime” us to death!
Jerry Steinberg, Surrey
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