BRIANSCAVOAUTOSALES

Brett Johnson made millions committing identity theft for a living before joining the Secret Service as a consultant. There are three rising cyber threats that alarm him most: deepfakes, scam farms, and synthetic IDs. He offers six ways to protect against fraud, including freezing your credit and setting up alerts. Brett Johnson spent over a decade breaking into systems, stealing identities, and selling stolen credit cards on the dark web. He stole millions of dollars, often making over $100,000 a month through tax-return identity theft. He's worked with the Secret Service and private companies as a consultant to help stop the kinds of crimes he once perpetrated. He told Business Insider's Carter Thallon in a recent interview that the crime world he helped invent is mutating into something harder to see — and almost impossible to stop. Cybercrime is becoming increasingly organized, and that's a problem, he said. The next wave of cybercrime will come from entire operation...

If you’ve ever gotten into coin collecting, you likely have looked up values of rare ones that could still be in circulation. There’s a marketplace for coin enthusiasts to buy and sell rare coins, where you could make some decent money if you find one that’s in demand. 1967 Kennedy Half Dollar Auction record: $6,995 This rare coin is notable because it doesn’t contain a mint mark; the U.S. Mint deliberately didn’t include mint marks on coins produced from 1965 to 1967, to limit coin hoarding. The Mint began making these half-dollars in 1964 to honor assassinated President John F. Kennedy. 1925-S Lincoln Penny Auction record: $54,625 This San Francisco wheat cent is popular among coin collectors because the 1925-S pennies are a valuable date and mint in the series. Find Out: Do You Have a $2K Quarter? Look Closely Before You Spend This 2004 Coin 1932-D Washington Quarter Auction record: $143,750 The U.S. Mint introduced this commemorative quarter that was designed to mark t...

Among the most valuable coins in history, certain pieces stand out not only for their rarity but also for their historical significance. These coins, ranging from ancient to modern, have fetched millions at auctions, with some even exceeding $1 million. The allure of these coins lies in their ability to tell the story of human civilization through their intricate designs and the historical events they represent. From ancient coins that laid the foundation for modern currency to rare American coins still in circulation, the world of numismatics offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and present of monetary history. Ancient Coins and Their Enduring Legacy The origins of coinage can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Lydia and Greece, where early coins set the foundation for modern currency systems. These ancient coins, often made from gold or electrum, are celebrated for their metallurgical innovation and scarcity. According to historical accounts, these coins not only...

The final US pennies struck this week might be worth a fortune. Coin experts estimate the last pennies minted Wednesday could sell for as much as $5 million each when they hit the auction block in December, USA Today reported. US Treasurer Brandon Beach pressed the button at the Philadelphia Mint on Wednesday to stamp out the final pennies after 232 years of production. The US government first started to mint pennies in 1793, when Philadelphia served as the nation’s capital. The last five pennies ever minted bear a special omega symbol marking their special status — which will surely get bidders’ tongues wagging when they eventually go up for auction later this year. “Collectors would go nuts for a modern rarity of business-strike Lincoln cents,” John Feigenbaum, publisher of rare coin price guide Greysheet, told USA Today. “The demand would be incredible because the item would be a required element of a truly ‘complete set.'” Feigenbaum, who runs the Professional Numismati...

Many coin collectors may not realize that their everyday collections could contain hidden treasures worth thousands of dollars. Among these are five specific coins minted in the 1960s, which have seen their values skyrocket in recent years. Additionally, unexpected rare Australian coins are currently fetching high prices in the market. Looking to the future, experts predict that certain rare coins will continue to appreciate significantly over the next decade. This article explores five rare coins that could be worth thousands, offering insights into their historical significance, identification tips, and current market values. 1. The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny holds a special place in numismatic history as the first year of the Lincoln cent series. Its rarity stems from a low mintage of only 484,000 pieces, making it a sought-after item among collectors. This coin can often be overlooked in personal collections, as highlighted in the Top 10 Rare Coins ...

I've spent a lot of time digging through my change jar, and I've realized just how easy it is to overlook old quarters that might actually have some value. Many of us toss coins into jars or pockets without a second thought, but some quarters can be worth more than their face value, especially if they're older or have unique features. If you take a moment to check your change, you could find quarters that collectors are interested in or that contain precious metals. Knowing what to look for can turn a simple coin hunt into a small treasure discovery right at home. 1941 Mercury Dime I always keep an eye out for the 1941 Mercury dime because it's quite common but still special. These dimes were made in large numbers, so finding one isn't too hard. What makes mine a bit more interesting is the condition and where it was minted. Proof versions from 1941 can be worth a bit more, often $100 or more if kept well. I make sure to store mine carefully to keep its value. ...

Key Points Social Security benefits will rise 2.8% next year. Annual COLAs are meant to help offset the impacts of inflation for retirees. The purchasing power of benefits has eroded significantly in recent years. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook The rules that dictate federal programs are rarely set in stone. Rather, the regulations governing these programs are, more often than not, quite fluid -- constantly adapting to changes in the broader economy. One program that millions of Americans monitor closely is Social Security. Perhaps the biggest reason is that each year, beneficiaries receive a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). While the recent government shutdown delayed the official COLA announcement, Social Security recipients now know they will be receiving a 2.8% increase to their benefit checks. Let's break down how this figure is calculated and examine what it reveals about the current economic picture. How are annual COLA figures ...

It's a well-known fact that the humble penny costs more to make than it's worth. And quite a bit more, as it turns out. Because of inflation in metal prices, the U.S. Mint disclosed in 2022 that each one-cent coin cost 2.72 cents to manufacture. However, if you happen to own one of a few dozen special pennies made in 1943, you could be sitting on a treasure that's worth enough to buy a house. Regular pennies from 1943 are worth about 30-40 cents each, which still isn't a bad return against their one-cent face value. Although most folks typically associate older pennies with a copper-alloy construction, many pennies from the World War II-era, including most 1943 pennies, were actually made from steel. That's because the country's military needed traditional coin-making metals like copper and nickel for producing war materials instead. Besides the semi-precious metals in coins, Americans were also asked to conserve food, gasoline, and rubber items like car tires...

In an age marked by persistent inflation, volatile markets, and widespread geopolitical uncertainty, the challenge extends beyond growing wealth—it lies in safeguarding it. As financial systems show signs of strain and economic turbulence looms, a pressing question emerges: Where can one securely preserve their assets when traditional institutions begin to resemble a ticking time bomb? Traditionally, gold and cash have always been seen as safe-haven assets, but in recent years, Bitcoin has entered the conversation as a modern alternative. Each has its advantages and risks, and choosing the right store of value depends on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and belief in the future of money. So, what’s the best choice for securing your wealth? Let’s break it down. Gold: The Timeless Store of Value Gold has been humanity’s go-to store of wealth for over 5,000 years. Unlike paper currencies, it doesn’t rely on governments or financial institutions to maintain its worth. When econo...

Understanding the Historic End of Penny Production ©unsplash There have been ongoing discussions about potentially ending penny production, though no official announcement has been made, marking the end of an era that began in 1792. Production costs continue to exceed the coin's value, leading to periodic discussions about the penny's future. The penny, which dates from the early days of the U.S. Mint after its establishment in 1792, now costs more to manufacture than the coin is worth. The 1-cent coin cost about 3.7 cents to manufacture and distribute in 2024. It did estimate an immediate savings to taxpayers of $56 million from the halt of penny production. HON BRIAN SCAVO

As President Donald Trump advocates for new stimulus measures in 2025, Americans may soon see additional federal payments. Economic discussions are ongoing, with updates suggesting that checks could be distributed as early as June. Meanwhile, the IRS continues to process unclaimed $1,400 stimulus bonuses from previous rounds, although the deadline for claims has already passed, affecting those who missed prior filings. Residents in states like Mississippi were urged to act quickly to secure these funds through straightforward recovery steps. Trump’s Proposed Stimulus Checks for 2025 The possibility of new stimulus checks under President Trump has been a topic of significant interest. As of May 21, 2025, discussions about the viability of these payments under the incoming administration have been ongoing. The potential for new rounds of stimulus checks is being closely monitored, with many Americans eager to understand how these measures might impact their financial situations. Accord...

For a long time, I have had concerns about national debts and the value of fiat currencies—and have written about how these concerns both increase the appeal of gold. Since I first expressed those thoughts, the price of gold has gone up a lot, so I’d like to share what I believe are the most important things to know about gold It seems indisputably true to me that gold is a money and that it is the money that is least at risk of being devalued and/or confiscated. That’s why gold has been valued as money for thousands of years and in almost all countries, while many other monies have come and gone. Here is how gold has historically held its value—and why it still does. Throughout history, all currencies have been either linked/”hard-asset-backed” currencies or “fiat” currencies. The value of linked, or “hard-asset-backed” currencies, are connected to gold or to something similarly limited in supply and globally valued, like silver. These currencies allow people or governments to ex...

Check your pennies because some may be worth up to $200,000 Many people overlook the potential value hidden in their everyday pocket change, but some pennies could be worth a small fortune. In the United States, certain rare pennies have been known to fetch up to $200,000 at auction. Across the pond, the rarest UK penny from 1952 has been valued at an astonishing £200,000. Collectors and casual coin enthusiasts alike are encouraged to inspect their loose change for these overlooked treasures, as recent reports highlight the significant financial rewards that could be hiding in plain sight. Rare U.S. Pennies Worth Checking In the United States, the possibility of finding a penny worth up to $200,000 is not just a collector’s dream but a reality for some lucky individuals. Reports from early 2023 emphasize the importance of checking your pockets for these valuable coins. Some U.S. pennies, due to their rarity and historical significance, have reached impressive auction prices. For inst...

Gold prices have been on a remarkable upward trajectory, reaching unprecedented levels in recent months. This surge has prompted Wall Street to encourage investors to maintain a long-term perspective, with some analysts predicting that gold could rally toward $5,000 per ounce. JPMorgan’s analysis supports this outlook, forecasting that gold will exceed $5,000 by 2026, driven by persistent economic uncertainties. This momentum builds on a series of record-breaking highs throughout 2025, as evidenced by analyses from September through November. Recent Surge in Gold Prices The recent surge in gold prices has been characterized by a consistent pattern of new highs. Reports from mid-September highlighted the factors driving this upward trend, suggesting that prices could continue to climb. According to Quartz, the drivers include geopolitical tensions and inflationary pressures, which have historically pushed investors toward gold as a safe haven. This trend continued into October, where...

Japan’s new prime minister Sanae Takaichi has stirred up a diplomatic storm with Beijing after suggesting that Japan’s self-defence forces could be mobilised if a Chinese attack on self-governed Taiwan threatened Japan’s survival. Her comments, made during a parliamentary session last week, marked a sharp break from Tokyo’s long-standing policy of “strategic ambiguity” over Taiwan – a stance designed to deter conflict without directly provoking China. She said that if an emergency in Taiwan involved “warships and the use of force, then that could constitute a situation threatening [Japan’s] survival, whichever way you look at it”. She added: “The so-called Taiwan contingency has become so serious that we have to anticipate a worst-case scenario.” “If there are battleships and the use of force, no matter how you think about it, it could constitute a survival-threatening situation,” Ms Takaichi said, referencing the legal threshold under Japan’s 2015 security legislation that allows ...

The Wall Street Journal editorial board panned President Trump’s proposal to provide $2,000 tariff rebate checks to most Americans, calling it a “Hail Mary pass.” “President Trump has a big tariff problem: His border taxes are raising prices on tariffed goods, they’re unpopular with voters, and the Supreme Court might rule that his “emergency” tariffs are illegal,” the editorial board said Sunday. Trump, in a Sunday Truth Social post, said every American — excluding “high income” people — will receive a $2,000 dividend from the revenue the federal government has collected from tariffs he has imposed on foreign trading partners. Through September, the Treasury Department has collected $195 billion from tariffs this year, an increase of 250 percent, or $118 billion, from fiscal 2024. The president also said his administration will use the tariffs to pay down the $38.12 trillion national debt. The Journal’s editorial board, however, called the dueling policy proposals a “contradiction...

President Donald Trump boasts that his tariffs protect American industries, lure factories to the United States, raise money for the federal government and give him diplomatic leverage. Now, he’s claiming they can finance a windfall for American families, too: He's promising a generous tariff dividend. The president proposed the idea on his Truth Social media platform Sunday, five days after his Republican Party lost elections in Virginia, New Jersey and elsewhere largely because of voter discontent with his economic stewardship — specifically, the high cost of living. The tariffs are bringing in so much money, the president posted, that “a dividend of at least $2000 a person (not including high income people!) will be paid to everyone.’’ Budget experts scoffed at the idea, which conjured memories of the Trump administration’s short-lived plan for DOGE dividend checks financed by billionaire Elon Musk’s federal budget cuts. “The numbers just don’t check out,″ said Erica York,...

President Donald Trump over the weekend vowed to provide each American a $2,000 dividend to be distributed from what he said was tariff revenue. "A dividend of at least $2000 a person (not including high income people!) will be paid to everyone,” the president wrote on social media Sunday, in part. Within hours, however, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent cast doubt on the plan, saying the payout could merely refer to tax savings enshrined by Trump's signature domestic spending measure. A tariff dividend may come "in lots of forms," Bessent told ABC News' "This Week" on Sunday, adding that he had not spoken with Trump about the proposal. Government shutdown updates: Johnson tells House members to begin returning to Washington immediately The idea of a potential tariff dividend -- reminiscent of pandemic-era stimulus checks -- has raised questions about who would qualify and what to make of the Trump administration’s mixed signals about the proposal. ...

President Trump proposed $2,000 tariff rebate checks but Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says no specific stimulus proposal is in the works. Yale Budget Lab found current tariff policies could cost each U.S. household $1,800 on average in 2025. COVID stimulus checks totaled up to $3,200 per person across three rounds between 2020 and 2021. Some investors get rich while others struggle because they never learned there are two completely different strategies to building wealth. Don’t make the same mistake, learn about both here. When economic times get tough, lawmakers sometimes come to the rescue in the form of stimulus checks. And now, President Trump is proposing a $2,000 tariff rebate check to help Americans cope with the higher costs that have resulted since tariff policies took hold. You may be wondering how these tariff rebate checks, if approved, will compare to the stimulus checks Americans received during the pandemic. Here's what you need to know. What stimulus a...

Threats to my portfolio are everywhere. Back in the spring, I put my money where my mouth was and bought some gold via the SPDR Gold Shares exchange-traded fund Not a huge position, but just under 2% of my well-diversified portfolio. I didn’t buy because I heard people talking about it on CNBC or Fox Business (an old portfolio-manager boss convinced me years ago that financial TV channels are a waste of time), or because I got a case of FOMO from hearing other people talk about it. That’s not the way to invest, either. My rationale was this: We’re in a risk-off world. It’s true today and likely will remain so for the near term. Threats to my portfolio are everywhere. Here are four: 1. Stock prices are crazy high. I cite two metrics to which I pay close attention. The first is the famed “Buffett indicator” — the ratio of the total U.S. stock market to gross domestic product — which suggests that U.S. stocks are “strongly overvalued.” The second is the Shiller CAPE ratio, also kno...

(Reuters) -Gold prices rose 2% on Monday, hitting their highest level in two weeks, as weak U.S. economic data bolstered expectations for a Federal Reserve rate cut next month, while a softer dollar lent further support to bullion. Spot gold climbed 2.1% to $4,082.17 per ounce by 1138 GMT, hitting its highest level since October 27. U.S. gold futures for December delivery rose 2% to $4,090.50 per ounce. The dollar index fell 0.1%, making gold more affordable for overseas buyers. [USD/] "There are concerns regarding the U.S. economy because of the weak data, and the main focus remains on the dollar index," said Jigar Trivedi, senior research analyst at Reliance Securities. Safe-haven buying has also increased due to persisting trade war and geopolitical tensions, aiding bullion, Trivedi added. Data last week showed the U.S. economy shed jobs in October, with losses in the government and retail sectors. Additionally, U.S. consumer sentiment fell to its lowest level in ...