Losing a loved one is never easy, even if they\u2019re resting in a site that can be visited. In fact, some miss their lost family and friends so much that they leave incredible and intricate offerings like flower arrangements, and in some cultures even snacks. However, placing coins on gravestones seems to be designated for members of the military, and has a very special meaning for veterans and their families.<\/p>\n
Why Place Coins on Gravestones<\/p>\n
Placing coins on gravestones has a history that is a little unclear. For example, some say that the tradition dates back to the Roman Empire. On the other hand, according to Snopes, \u201cthere\u2019s no reason to believe that it does.\u201d Because there is \u201ca lack of documentation.\u201d Either way, one thing stands true. Those who serve in the armed forces, and the people who love them, make sacrifices that most people can\u2019t imagine.<\/p>\n
Therefore, it\u2019s not surprising that those who\u2019ve served together would find a way to honor those who were lost along the way. Reportedly, the placement of coins on gravestones can be traced back to the Vietnam War. Placing coins on gravestones was seemingly safer for people to contact one another. \u201cDue to the political divide in the country over the war, leaving a coin was seen as a more practical way to communicate that you had visited the grave than contacting the soldier\u2019s family, which could devolve into an uncomfortable argument over politics relating to the war.\u201d Explains a page on the American Legion Website.<\/p>\n
Symbolically Showing Respect<\/p>\n
Moreover, the tradition of leaving coins on gravestones also came about as a way for veterans to honor their \u201cfallen comrades\u201d or \u201cbuy them a beer.\u201d Usurpingly, each coin symbolizes something different.<\/p>\n
For example, a penny left, simply means someone was there. Meanwhile, a nickel has a slightly more sentimental meaning because it signifies the person who left the memento, and the deceased were in boot camp together.<\/p>\n
Next, a dime signifies serving together, even if for only a short period of time before being transferred\u2014lastly, a quarter, perhaps the most scared of all coins, on a gravestone. The quarter lets the deceased\u2019s family know that whoever left the memento was actually present during the time of death.<\/p>\n
Other Military and Monetary Traditions<\/p>\n
Interestingly, placing coins on gravestones of those who\u2019ve served in the military isn\u2019t the only tradition relating to money or even \u201ccoins,\u201d as challenge coins are also a beloved military tradition. While today there are themed and personalized coins available, they became a significant part of US military traditions in WW1. The tradition is meant to symbolize unity among those who\u2019ve served. Although they hold sentimental value and represent something incredible, they hold no monetary value.<\/p>\n
In contrast, there are many other traditions in which coins are used as a symbol of good luck, goodwill toward newlyweds, and for making wishes. Additionally, there have been reports throughout history of people being buried with their wealth. For example, Abraham Lincoln didn\u2019t leave coins on his gravestone. Instead, he was reportedly buried with two-half dollars over his eyes.<\/p>\n
Coins have been symbolic for numerous cultures and various reasons, as well as a symbol of status and good fortune. While it\u2019s unclear if the symbolism of currency played any role in establishing the tradition of placing coins on gravestones, the tradition symbolizes a bond much deeper than most people can fathom. A way to let others know the sacrifices of those in the service and their families haven\u2019t gone unnoticed.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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