In this captivating December edition of Hard Money Matters, hosts Kyle Warren and John Mabin of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry explore a stunning recent numismatic discovery—a 1945 Lincoln cent struck on an anomalous planchet containing 12% silver (alloy roughly 83% copper, 12% silver, 5% zinc, weighing 3.61 grams vs. standard 3.11), confirmed in late 2025 and baffling experts with theories ranging from accidental wartime contamination to intentional experimental strikes during WWII's final months, when material shortages led to innovations like silver war nickels and shell-case bronze cents. They ponder whether it was a playful late-night Mint mishap or a deliberate test, underscoring the detective thrill that keeps collectors hooked on history. The duo revisits the end of penny production, tempering hype around the Omega-marked 2025 final cents (which auctioned for over $16.76 million total in December 2025 via Stack's Bowers, with the symbolic last set hitting $800,000) as impressive but perhaps not the $2–5 million extremes some predicted for these manufactured rarities. Amid gold's dramatic 2025 run-up (closing near $4,340–$4,368 per ounce after breaching $4,000+), they discuss how soaring prices shift mindsets—more sellers taking profits than new buyers jumping in at perceived highs—yet insist there's no universal ceiling, as personal goals and historical patterns (like Bitcoin's relentless climbs) drive continued demand; advice includes prudent partial selling on the way up rather than greedy holding. Holiday newcomers get practical guidance on spotting a good local coin shop: look for engaging staff you click with, active inventory turnover (not static cases), and a welcoming vibe that fosters long-term relationships over high-pressure sales. They touch on evolving cash dynamics—some venues going cashless despite no federal mandate to accept it (though some states/cities require it for fairness), with costs, security, and convenience favoring electronic payments—while reflecting on pre-1793 colonial "hodgepodge" currency like Spanish pieces of eight, Continental dollars, and state issues as exotic, sought-after classics with lower liquidity but strong appeal outside mainstream U.S. collecting. Tying it all together is the enduring magic of numismatics: connecting revolutionary-era improvisation to modern mysteries and future uncertainties in a potentially cashless world, where gold, silver, and historical coins remain timeless stores of value. As always, opinions aren't investment advice, and precious metals/coins carry risks of loss—visit Pegasus Coin and Jewelry in Bradenton for expert help or tune in next week!