Our economy is in the shitter and we spend millions to make new pennies. Brilliant!
The new pennies, commemorating the 200th anniversary of Lincoln's birth, were authorized by Public Law 109-145, which was passed in 2005.
In 2005, we had a different economy, a different congress, and a different president. You should take up your issues with them.
FYI, the same act authorized the creation of presidential spouse bullion coins. I can't wait for the Betty Ford coin. I'm going to buy some blow with it.