What could you buy with a penny in 1864?

In 1864, a penny could buy a variety of small items, such as a piece of candy, a pencil, or a handful of nails. It could also cover the cost of a newspaper or a small portion of food, like a loaf of bread or a few Apples, depending on the region. However, the purchasing power of a penny was much greater than today, making it a more valuable currency for everyday transactions.