Change for Change Sake

Sometimes I just don't get it right. And based on comments received about my Change Management, Part I post, it happened again.

The general consensus was this: "You don't have to use the 18 cent coin just because you have it. Just use it when it makes sense." Fair point - and one that was further illuminated by the guy behind the counter who gave me 4 nickels and a penny worth of change yesterday afternoon.

So perhaps some recalculating is in order to determine the APPROPRIATE net coin savings (NCS) and cumulative coin savings (CCS):

Purchase: Two medium pizzas (one cheese, one barbeque chicken) and a large salad. NCS: 0. CCS: 0.

Purchase: Yarn for some scarves my wife and daughter are knitting. NCS: 4. CCS: 4.

Purchase: Some picture hooks and lightbulbs from the local hardware store. NCS: 0; CCS: 4.

Purchase: Gas for my car. NCS: 0. CCS: 4.

Purchase:Office Supplies. NCS: 0. CCS: 4.

Bottom Line: The total number of coins received as change from my purchases would drop from 21 to 17 if an 18 cent coin was available (even if not used). That's about a 20% savings which is considered a meaningful difference by most people. Myself included.

So my apologies, Dr. Shallit. And my thanks to those of you who helped 'change' my mind!