It is part of the Greene County tourism experience: inserting a shiny copper coin, turning the hand crank, and watching as a piece of local history is pressed right before your eyes.
For years, the penny souvenir machine located in the lobby of the Mahanay Bell Tower has been a fan favorite for visitors of all ages. For just 50 cents plus a penny, guests can walk away with a custom-stamped keepsake featuring one of four iconic local designs: the Lincoln Highway; the Mahanay Bell Tower; the Thomas Jefferson Gardens; or the Greene County courthouse.
However, a shift in national currency has the Bell Tower Community Foundation looking to the future following the official end of U.S. penny production in November 2025.
“Our pressed penny machine is a favorite souvenir for families and collectors,” said Molly Cunningham, staff coordinator for the Mahanay Bell Tower. “We want to make sure our lobby is always stocked and ready. We are asking our community to check their couch cushions, piggy banks, and car cupholders to help keep this tradition alive.” The Bell Tower staff is officially accepting penny donations to be kept at the Mahanay Bell Tower lobby for visitors to use. Donations can be taken to the bell tower lobby daily from 10 am to 4 pm.
