Disney Pressed Pennies: Affordable Souvenirs with Iconic Designs
Are you curious about one of the most affordable souvenirs at Disney Parks—pressed pennies? After saving for our first family trip to Walt Disney World in Orlando, we were not fully prepared for the constant barrage of Disney keepsakes our kids would ask for. Around every corner, there seems to be a new kiosk with stuffed Mickeys and Minnies, colorful printed t-shirts, blinking Buzz Lightyear toys, sparkling princess tiaras, and hundreds of Disney Pins. It is tough to continually say no, but we did have a budget. But then we found the penny collection folder and the machines to create pressed pennies scattered throughout Disney World. For a few bucks, our boys could start a collection and have a place to store their beloved squished, elongated, or pressed pennies.
As Disney fans, hunting for shiny pennies before each trip became a tradition. We aimed to collect at least one from every park, choosing designs with our favorite characters. Over the years, we picked up plenty of tips, and now we’re excited to help others discover the magic of an affordable pressed penny collection!
Let’s look back to when these collectible souvenirs first arrived in the parks. And how the experience of collecting them has changed over time. Plus, we’ll share tips on cleaning your coins to keep them looking their best! Let’s jump in and discover the history of pressed pennies at Disney!
The Introduction of Pressed Penny Machines at Disney Parks
Pressed penny machines debuted at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California, in 1987. Two automated, coin-operated machines were placed in the Penny Arcade on Main Street, U.S.A. The first Disney pressed penny featured Mickey Mouse’s face with a sunburst behind him and “Disneyland” above.
The second machine, placed alongside the first, featured a Country Bear Jamboree design with Big Al and his guitar. These two machines sparked a Disney tradition that still delights visitors at Disney parks around the world.
Pressed pennies arrived at Walt Disney World in 1994 with two machines, each offering four designs. The first machine had dies featuring Mickey Mouse with a sunburst, standing Mickey, Minnie Mouse, and Chip ‘n’ Dale. The second machine showcased designs from Typhoon Lagoon, including a shark, a shipwrecked Miss Tilly on Mount Mayday, a snorkeling Mickey, and Mickey riding on an inner tube.
Pressed Pennies: Why Copper Matters
But what about the penny that is used to create these pressed and squished collectibles? Will any old penny do? Dedicated pressed penny collectors prefer pre-1982 pennies because they contain more copper. This choice comes down to a few key reasons:
- Pennies minted before 1982 are 95% copper and 5% zinc, while newer ones have just a 2.5% copper coating over a 97.5% zinc core.
- Pre-1982 pennies, with their higher copper content, press more smoothly and evenly. The softer copper captures details better, creating a cleaner, more polished design.
- Copper is softer than zinc, so pre-1982 pennies press more cleanly without cracking or showing imperfections.
- Pennies after 1982 have a thin copper coating that can streak during pressing, exposing the zinc underneath—something collectors try to avoid. To tell the difference between 1982 penny types, you can weigh them.
- Copper-based 1982 pennies weigh 3.11 grams.
- Zinc-based 1982 pennies weigh 2.5 grams.
In 1982, the U.S. Mint switched from 95% copper pennies to a zinc-core design. Some pennies from that year still have the older composition, while others feature the newer one. This makes 1982 a unique year for pressed penny collectors, as both copper and zinc types can be found.
The Evolution of Pressed Penny Machines
It was magical for our kids, who were into the mechanics of how things worked. Each press required one penny and two quarters, totaling $0.51. We preferred shiny pennies but had some that were a bit more used. Both will work, but the shiny ones are spectacular! Pressed penny machines are located in the parks and resorts throughout Walt Disney World. Similar to the trading pins, there are beloved characters like Buzz, Dopey, and Mickey, as well as designs that commemorate a visit to a park, like Epcot or Magic Kingdom, a resort, like All Star Sports or Animal Kingdom Lodge, or an attraction like the Rockin’ Roller Coaster or Test Track.
For our family, pressed pennies were more than just souvenirs—they were an integral part of our vacation. Before each trip, we searched for the shiniest pennies to bring along with our stash of quarters. Our kids could barely wait to step off the monorail at the Contemporary Resort, ride down the escalator, and press their first penny at the machines near the bottom. It felt like a scavenger hunt for tiny pieces of Disney magic. Our kids found that searching for the penny machines was part of the adventure. And at 51 cents, Mom and Dad were able to say yes over and over without breaking the bank!
Super-Sized Coins ~ The Pressed Quarter
Pressed quarters are available too. However, these souvenirs are a bit bigger investment, as it took 5 quarters back in the day to get one squished keepsake. But often the dies for the quarters were a one-year limited edition, so they are more collectible. And overall, they are still an affordable collectible, compared to the cost of Disney pins and toys. Although there are fewer options for pressed quarters, there are still a few machines scattered around WDW.
Today’s pressed penny machines work differently and, like everything else, cost a bit more. No need to bring coins—everything is digital. Instead of inserting quarters and pennies, guests pay with a credit card. Each pressed penny now costs a dollar, which is still an affordable souvenir compared to other options in the park. And check the machines closely, as there are some that offer sets of eight for $5.
How to Clean Your Pressed Pennies
While we love collecting and pressing pennies during our trips, often they end up tucked away and forgotten when we arrive home. Some of our first pressed penny books sat in boxes and were rarely opened. Over time, the coins developed a patina or tarnish, making the designs harder to see. Thankfully, we have discovered a few simple cleaning methods that can restore the copper shine and bring the magical designs back to life.
As collectors, not experts, we’ve learned that the soaking time for cleaning coins with a vinegar and salt solution depends on the level of tarnish. In our experience, it can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. Here’s the method we use:
- Mix 1/4 cup of white vinegar with 1 teaspoon of salt in a non-metal bowl, stirring until the salt dissolves.
- Soaking time:
- Lightly tarnished coins: 10-15 seconds may be sufficient.
- Moderately tarnished coins: 5-15 minutes.
- Heavily tarnished coins: Up to 3 hours.
- After soaking, rinse the coins thoroughly with distilled or purified water.
- Use a soft cloth or paper towel to gently wipe the coins. For best results, use a microfiber towel or terrycloth.
- Avoid rubbing or scrubbing with force.
- Pat dry instead of rubbing.
- Be careful not to leave coins in the solution for too long, as it may cause additional wear to the metal.
Vinegar and salt work well, but some other collectors recommend alternatives like Wright’s Copper Cream or Wright’s Brass Polish for pre-1982 pennies.
Pro Tip from Nana T
Consider visiting the official Disney website to print out a map of current locations to find pressed coin machines prior to your vacation. Also, purchase a generic pressed penny saver book online ahead of time and pack it with your essentials to keep your pennies in tip-top condition.
Disney Pressed Penny FAQs
How Much Do Pressed Pennies Cost at Disney World in 2025?
Each pressed penny costs $1, and the machines accept credit cards. You do not need to bring your own pennies, as they will be provided for you.
How Many Pressed Penny Machines Are There in Disney World?
At the time of this writing, there are approximately 180 pressed penny machines across Walt Disney World, with a breakdown as follows:
- Magic Kingdom: 30 machines (173 pressed pennies).
- Epcot: 27 machines (158 pressed pennies).
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom: 21 machines (98 pressed pennies).
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios: 23 machines (128 pressed pennies).
- Disney Springs: 25 machines (130 pressed pennies).
Can I Use My Own Pennies in Disney’s Machines?
No, Disney’s current pressed penny machines do not accept outside coins. They provide the penny as part of the $1 cost and only accept credit cards or Disney gift cards for payment.
Are There Special Edition or Limited Time Pressed Pennies at Disney?
Yes, Disney occasionally releases special edition or limited edition pressed pennies. These might coincide with:
- Seasonal events (i.e. Halloween, Christmas).
- Park anniversaries.
- New attraction openings.
- Character celebrations.
- Disney World in October is Awesome - February 24, 2025
- Disney Ruggable Rugs ~ Magical Home Decor - February 16, 2025
- Disney Pressed Pennies: Affordable Souvenirs with Iconic Designs - February 10, 2025
