If You See Coins Placed on a Grave, Absolutely Do Not Touch Them
In cemeteries across many countries around the world, it’s common to see coins placed on gravestones. But what are these coins used for? Why should we never disturb or move them? Below is a detailed explanation to help everyone understand this custom.
A Unique Way to Remember the Departed
When you bring fresh flowers, candles, or even a small meal to a cemetery, it’s likely that warm and familiar memories of a loved one who has passed will come to mind.
However, as you walk past rows of graves, you might notice some headstones with a flower—or a few coins, sometimes even a large number of them—carefully placed on top.
Why are these coins there? Can we move them? And can we place coins on the graves of our own loved ones?
Upon closer observation, you’ll find that coins are most often seen on the graves of soldiers or fallen heroes. The person leaving the coin usually chooses a denomination that reflects their relationship to the deceased.
A Cultural Practice Rooted in American Tradition
From ancient China to the Egyptian and Roman empires, every culture has had unique customs and rituals to honor the deceased.
In the United States, beginning around the Vietnam War era (1955–1975), a new tradition emerged: placing coins on the gravestones of soldiers who died in battle as a gesture of gratitude. This practice had a heartfelt origin.
Returning soldiers from war would often take it upon themselves to sweep fallen leaves and place coins on the headstones of their fallen comrades ahead of Memorial Day. It was their way of comforting the spirits and showing the families that their loved ones were not forgotten—that someone still remembered and cared.
A Lasting Gesture of Gratitude
From then on, regardless of whether the soldier died in battle or due to illness or accident, if the grave belonged to a servicemember, Americans would place coins on it as a sign of remembrance and appreciation for their service and sacrifice for the nation.
So the next time you see a coin on a headstone—especially on that of a soldier—remember that it carries deep meaning. It is not just a token, but a silent message of respect, remembrance, and honor.