There’s a certain tradition behind these little trinkets. If you’ve ever spotted some items left on somebody’s gravestone, it’s not just there randomly. It usually is left because of sentiment.
Leaving coins on a gravestone signifies that the person buried there was a member of the military. These pennies are a symbol of remembrance, intended to honor the individual for their service to their country. They can be left by loved ones, friends, or coworkers who visit the deceased to convey their pride.
These coins can also make an impact on the family left behind by the deceased. Now, note that each type of coin left holds different meanings. For example, if someone left behind a nickel, it means that the visitor who left the coin went to boot camp with the person buried. A dime, on the other hand, signifies that the visitor served alongside the deceased.
Lastly, if you see a quarter, it means that the person who left it was present when the soldier passed away.
Image credit: Ralph C.