Pennies, more than just small change, have established themselves as a canvas for creativity and a medium for personal and meaningful crafts. Whether you’re a numismatist looking to enhance a collection, a DIY enthusiast seeking a unique project, or a metalworking hobbyist exploring new challenges, drilling a hole in a penny opens up a world of possibilities.
A drilled penny can become a pendant, an earring, or part of a larger mosaic of innovation. This guide will navigate you through the intricate process of adding a hole to that copper canvas without devaluing the final piece.
Materials and Tools Needed
To embark on this drilling adventure, you’ll need the following:
- A penny (or several, in case practice makes perfect)
- A sturdy work surface
- A bench vise or clamp
- Safety goggles
- A hand file or high-grit sandpaper
- A fine-tip permanent marker
- A power drill or hand drill
- A nail (optional, for manual punching)
- A suitable workspace
Safety First
Safety should always be the priority when working with metal and power tools. Always wear protective eyewear and work in a well-ventilated area. If you’re using a power drill, ensure electrical safety as well. Never hold the penny with your fingers; use a clamp or vise instead to secure it safely.
Step 1: Preparation
Cleaning the Penny
Start by thoroughly cleaning the pennies, as any dirt or oil on the surface can cause your drill bit to wander during the process. A little soap and water, followed by a rub with rubbing alcohol, should give you a pristine penny to work with.
Marking Your Spot
Use a fine-tip permanent marker to make a small dot where you want your hole to be. This precision will guide your drill bit and help prevent mistakes that could damage the penny or injure you.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Drill Bit
For drilling into metal, HSS (High-Speed Steel) or cobalt drill bits are ideal. The size of the bit will depend on the project, but for most purposes, a 1/16 or 1/8-inch bit should suffice. Always use a cutting solvent or lubricant to keep the bit and metal cool during the drilling process.
Step 3: Setting Up the Drill
Secure the penny in a bench vise or use a clamp to hold it firmly on your work surface. If using a power drill, select an appropriate speed; too fast can cause the metal to heat up and the bit to become dull.
Step 4: Drilling the Hole
Technique
Position your drill bit directly over the marked spot on the penny and hold the drill perpendicular to the surface. Begin drilling at a low speed, applying gentle, consistent pressure. As the bit begins to bite into the metal, gradually increase the speed.
Control
The most challenging aspect of drilling a penny is maintaining control. Due to its small size and shape, the penny might “grab” the bit. To counteract this, start with a small indentation using a nail or punch to create a guide for your drill bit.
Preventing Damage
The goal is to drill completely through the penny, so be mindful of the process. As you near the end of the drilling, reduce the pressure and speed, allowing the bit to cut smoothly through the remaining metal without damaging the penny.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
De-Burring
After drilling the hole, you may notice sharp edges around the rim. Use a hand file or high-grit sandpaper to smooth out these edges, ensuring a safe and polished final product.
Cleaning and Polishing
A common issue after drilling is a residue left on the penny from the cutting solvent. Clean the penny after drilling and any finishing touch-ups. You can also polish it with a soft cloth and a mild metal polish to restore its shine.
Incorporating Your Drilled Penny
With the hole drilled and the penny cleaned, the crafting phase begins. Your drilled pennies can be used in various DIY projects, from jewelry to home decor. One popular use is to thread a penny onto a chain to create a simple, yet distinct, necklace. Numismatists can use drilled pennies to create unique exhibitions, highlighting the artistry and evolution of coinage.
Conclusion
The penny, a seemingly insignificant piece of currency, becomes a treasure trove waiting to be unlocked when a hole is properly drilled. This simple act transforms what might have been spent on a passing fancy into something enduring and personal.
As you explore the world of drilling pennies, take pride in the safety precautions you’ve observed and the skills you’ve deployed. And remember, the drilled penny before you is not just a feat of precision and power—it’s a starting point for your imagination. Whether you’re doing it for the love of the penny or the pleasure of the project, drilling a hole in a penny is more than just a task; it’s a testament to the ingenuity that can be found in even the smallest of endeavors.
FAQ’s
How do you make a hole in a penny?
To make a hole in a penny, start by selecting the proper tools and preparing the penny as outlined in steps 1 to 3. After securing the penny, carefully use a power drill with the correct size drill bit, maintaining control and applying gentle pressure.
Once the hole is drilled, smooth any sharp edges with a file or sandpaper and clean the penny for a finished look, creating a unique piece for your artistic or collection purposes.
Can you punch holes in coins?
Punching holes in coins is possible with the right tools and techniques. In addition to drilling, you can use a metal punch designed for use with coins or a sturdy nail and hammer if you prefer a manual approach.
Be aware that punching, much like drilling, requires a firm hand and precision to avoid deforming the coin or causing injury. It’s also important to consider the legal implications in your country, as some jurisdictions have laws regarding the defacement of currency.
Why did people drill holes in coins?
In the past, people changed coins for different reasons. They drilled holes in coins so they could carry them easily on a chain or piece of leather. This was a safe way to carry money without losing it, before wallets and purses were common.
Additionally, drilling holes in coins was sometimes done by merchants or organizations as a form of marking to validate the currency within a particular domain or transaction. It’s also worth noting that some currencies came pre-drilled from the mint for these practical purposes. Today, while we don’t typically drill coins for carrying or validation, the practice continues primarily for artistic, commemorative, or jewelry-making purposes.
Can you legally drill a hole in a penny?
In the US, it’s usually okay to make a hole in a penny for art, jewelry, or crafts. As long as the coin isn’t changed and used to trick someone, it’s allowed.
But some people disagree with drilling a coin. They say that even if it’s for art, it shows disrespect for money. It’s important to check the rules from the United States Mint or other authorities to make sure you’re following the law.
I’m Ethan Knight, a mechanical engineer and writer. I’ve been writing for blogs and university projects for ten years, sharing my expertise in engineering and product tools. I’m passionate about empowering readers to choose and use their tools effectively, enabling their creativity and efficiency. Join me on this journey to unlock the potential of our tools together.
