Ocean State Job Lot Offers Gift Cards for Loose Coins

This blog post takes a closer look at Ocean State Job Lot’s new “Crazy for Coins” promotion. It’s a pretty timely response to the ongoing national coin shortage.

As a long-time Connecticut-based retailer, the discount chain is encouraging shoppers to clean out their change jars. They’re offering gift cards and bonus savings, while making sure stores have enough coins for daily transactions.

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Ocean State Job Lot’s “Crazy for Coins” Explained

Ocean State Job Lot is a familiar name for bargain hunters across Connecticut. The chain has rolled out a promotion that’s actually a win-win for shoppers and the retailer.

They’re asking customers to bring in rolled coins. In return, you get store gift cards equal to the value of the coins you hand over.

This initiative, called “Crazy for Coins”, aims to ease the strain from a nationwide coin shortage. For many folks, it’s just a simple way to turn spare change into some real savings.

How the Coin Exchange Works

The process is straightforward, but there are a few rules you should know. Customers have to bring in full, properly rolled coins.

Loose coins or half-filled rolls? Nope, they won’t take them. There’s also a minimum: you need at least $10 in rolled coins to participate.

Once staff verify your coins, Ocean State Job Lot gives you a standard gift card for the total coin value. No complicated steps here.

Extra Savings for Job Lot Insider Club Members

The deal gets even sweeter for members of the free Job Lot Insider Club loyalty program. Members get an extra bonus on top of the regular gift card.

This bonus is a Crazy Deal Gift Card worth 40% of the exchanged amount. That’s a nice little incentive for loyal shoppers.

An Example of the Bonus in Action

Let’s say you bring in $10 in rolled coins. Here’s what you’d walk away with:

$10 Ocean State Job Lot gift card
$4 Crazy Deal Gift Card for Insider Club members

The regular gift card works right away. The bonus Crazy Deal Gift Card can be used starting the next day.

Why the Coin Shortage Matters

The “Crazy for Coins” promotion didn’t just show up out of nowhere. Retailers all over the country have struggled with limited coin supplies since federal policy changes hit coin production.

The U.S. Mint stopped making new pennies in May 2025, after earlier directives to halt penny production. This move has made everyday transactions trickier, especially for retailers who rely on cash.

Ocean State Job Lot’s Footprint in Connecticut

Ocean State Job Lot runs more than 150 stores across nine states. Connecticut’s got a strong share of those stores.

Right now, there are 26 locations statewide. They serve communities from Fairfield County all the way to the Quiet Corner.

You’ll find stores in cities and towns like Hartford, New Haven, Bridgeport, Stamford, Waterbury, Norwalk, Danbury, New Britain, Manchester, and West Hartford. That’s quite a spread.

Recent Changes to Store Locations

The company recently closed its Southington store after failing to renew its lease. Even with that closure, Ocean State Job Lot still plays a big role in Connecticut’s discount retail scene.

What Shoppers Should Know Before Visiting

Before you head out, make sure your coins are rolled up right and hit that $10 minimum. It’s easy to forget, but a quick check can save you hassle at the store.

If you haven’t already, joining the Job Lot Insider Club before your visit helps you snag the full perks of this promotion. Why miss out on extra savings?

Connecticut shoppers who want to make their money go further might find this coin exchange program surprisingly handy. It’s a straightforward way to turn spare change into real savings, and at the same time, you’re helping local stores deal with a coin shortage that’s honestly been a headache for everyone.

Here is the source article for this story: Ocean State Job Lot to give gift cards in exchange for coins

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