How to Count Pennies, Nickels, Dimes, and Quarters

What children need to know first

1. A penny is 1¢, a nickel is 5¢, a dime is 10¢, and a quarter is 25¢.
2. The coin's size does not determine its value; recognize each coin and its denomination.

Step-by-step explanation

1. Sort the coins by type.
2. Begin with the largest value: quarters, then dimes, nickels, and pennies.
3. Skip-count within each type and keep a running total.
4. Say the total using cents.

Worked examples

Common mistakes and how to fix them

1. Counting a nickel as one because it is one coin. Count its value, five cents.
2. Switching coin names based only on size. Check the coin's face and denomination.

Parent teaching tips

1. Use real or play coins and let your child sort before counting.
2. Ask the child to explain why starting with quarters or dimes can reduce counting steps.

Independent practice

1. Count 3 nickels and 2 pennies.
2. Count 2 quarters and a dime.

Explore related skills

• How to Count Money and Make Change
• How to Solve Math Word Problems Step by Step

Practice this skill

Open the matching Grades 2–3 activity for Money. You can print its worksheet with questions only or an answer key.

Start Money practice · View the grade-level topic page