Carrying a penny in your wallet may seem inconsequential, but this often overlooked coin can offer surprising benefits. From emergency survival hacks to ingenious ways of using it as a tool, a penny can be a real-life saver.
1. Makeshift Screwdriver
Ever found yourself in a situation where you needed a flathead screwdriver but didn’t have one on hand? A penny can come to your rescue. Its thin edge can fit into most flathead screws, allowing you to tighten or loosen them as needed. It might not be as effective as a professional screwdriver, but it can certainly do the job in a pinch.
For those who find themselves in such situations frequently, investing in a multi-tool that includes a screwdriver might be a good idea. You can find a variety of them here.
2. Emergency Measurement Tool
Did you know that a penny is exactly 0.75 inches in diameter? This makes it a handy makeshift ruler in situations where precision is not paramount. If you need to measure something quickly and don’t have a ruler on hand, your trusty penny can help you out.
While it’s not a replacement for a proper measuring tape or ruler, it’s a great hack to keep in mind when you’re in a pinch. If you are someone who often needs to measure things on the go, consider investing in a portable measuring tape. Here are some options you can consider.
3. Car Tire Tread Check
An easy way to check if your car tires are still roadworthy is by using a penny. Just insert a penny into your tire’s tread groove with Lincoln’s head upside down and facing you. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace your tires. This is because the tread depth is less than 2/32 of an inch, which is the minimum legal limit.
This simple test can be a lifesaver, especially for those who frequently travel long distances. It’s also crucial for maintaining safety on the road. If you find that your tires need replacing, check out these options.
4. Makeshift Fuse
In the old days, pennies were used as temporary fuses in household fuse boxes to restore power during a fuse blowout. While this isn’t recommended (or legal) today due to safety concerns, it’s an interesting piece of trivia that illustrates the versatility of the humble penny. Remember, always call a professional when dealing with electrical issues.
Instead of resorting to such dangerous measures, consider investing in a proper fuse kit. You can find some reliable options here.
5. Coin Toss Decision Maker
When faced with a tough decision, a coin toss can help. While it may seem silly, it’s a time-tested method for making decisions where the outcome is equally desirable or undesirable. It’s also a fun and fair way to make decisions in a group setting. And, of course, a penny is perfect for this task.
So, the next time you’re stuck between two choices, just flip a penny. Remember, it’s not about leaving important decisions to chance but about simplifying the decision-making process when you’re dealing with equivalent options.
6. DIY Art and Crafts
Pennies can also be used for various art and craft projects. From making jewelry to decorating photo frames, there are countless ways to repurpose pennies into beautiful art pieces. It’s a fun, creative, and affordable way to create unique DIY projects.
If you’re interested in starting a penny craft project, you might need some craft supplies. Check out these options to get started.
7. Good Luck Charm
Many people believe that finding a penny heads-up brings good luck. While there’s no scientific evidence to back this up, carrying a penny in your wallet can serve as a positive reminder to stay optimistic and hopeful. After all, who couldn’t use a little extra luck?
If you’re a believer in good luck charms, there are many available for purchase. Here are some options you might like.
8. Teaching Aid for Kids
Pennies are excellent teaching aids for kids. You can use them to teach children about money, history, and even science. For instance, a simple science experiment is to see which liquids (like vinegar, ketchup, or soda) can make a penny shine the brightest. It’s a fun and educational way to use pennies.
If you want to encourage your child’s learning further, consider getting some educational toys. You can find a wide variety here.
9. Weight for Balancing Objects
Lastly, a penny can act as a small weight to balance objects. For instance, if you’re trying to level a wobbly table, slipping a penny under one of the legs can do the trick. It’s a simple, yet effective solution for a common problem.
For more permanent fixes to wobbly furniture, you might need some tools and supplies. Here are some options that could help.
In conclusion, a penny might not be worth much, but it’s definitely more versatile than you might think. From its use as a makeshift tool to its role in fun DIY projects, the humble penny proves that even the smallest things can have great value. So, why not keep a penny in your wallet? Who knows when it might come in handy!
