Debate on the penny's fate rages on
as Congress and pundits alike weigh in.
But while others determine its future,
I speak on behalf of what it has been.

As we'd walk the three blocks to Shrack's Corner,
each with some pennies held tight in her hand,
those pennies came with decisions to make -
Important purchases need to be planned.

Mr. Shrack kept a large inventory
displayed in a glass case that never changed.
Tootsie rolls next to the caramel squares,
Bit-O-Honey right by the Mary Janes.

I'd succumb to the sight of nonpareils -
unless chocolate babies should catch my eye.
Banana Bonomo's Turkish taffy -
now that was always a very fine buy.

I might choose a candy necklace for show,
but I'd soon enough pull off the sugar "beads."
Or perhaps I'd suck dry a few Nickel-nips
if the Swedish fish didn't fill my needs.

A penny might not buy a thing today,
but it bought paradise in fifty-five.
Sugary, chewy and chocolaty treats
made children like me glad to be alive.