A rechargeable battery having improved safety against puncture and collapse includes an electrode assembly, a case, a first electrode terminal and a second electrode terminal, a cap plate, and a short circuit member. The electrode assembly includes a first electrode, a separator, and a second electrode. The case contains the electrode assembly. The first electrode terminal and a second electrode terminal are electrically connected to the first electrode and the second electrode, respectively. The short circuit member is between the electrode assembly and the case and short circuits the secondary battery when the secondary battery is punctured or collapsed.