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They are just coin sorters/counters, similar to those used by banks. The machine divides the coins into quarters, dimes, etc., and then counts how many of them you put in, calculating the total dollar value of the coins you dumped in.

Someone got the smart idea that they could put such machines in grocery stores and elsewhere, and take a percentage of the profits. So if you put in, say, $20 in coins, the machine will give you a credit for, say $19, with the operator collecting $1 in profit.

Many credit unions and some banks will let you use their coin sorters/counters without charge.

Also, you can always count the coins yourself, and put them into the paper wrappers that most banks will give you for free, and then take them to the bank for deposit, with the bank giving you full credit for the amount of coins. The bank then has the rolls of coins to give to people who ask for them, such as businessmen.

Basically you put in a lot of coins, you know from like fund raisers or whatever, then those coins are counted in the machine and it gives you cash. But for every dollar made they charge you 8.9 cents.