Leaving coins on gravestones is a longstanding tradition with deep historical and symbolic meaning, especially in military cemeteries. Here’s what different coins represent and why the practice continues today.
Origins of the tradition
This custom has ancient roots but became widely recognized in the U.S. during the Vietnam War as a way to honor fallen soldiers.
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Greek & Roman mythology – Coins were placed on the eyes or in the mouths of the dead to pay Charon, the ferryman who carried souls to the afterlife.
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American Civil War – Some historians suggest soldiers left coins to settle debts or mark visits.
Meaning of different coins
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Penny (1¢) – General sign of respect, showing the visitor paid their respects.
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Nickel (5¢) – The visitor trained at boot camp with the deceased.
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Dime (10¢) – The visitor served with the soldier.
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Quarter (25¢) – Indicates the visitor was present when the soldier died.
Other meanings:
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Coins placed upright may symbolize active remembrance.
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Foreign coins can show the visitor traveled from afar to honor the dead.
Why people still leave coins
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