The Meaning Behind Placing Coins on Gravestones

Finding ways to celebrate a loved one’s memory becomes vital for many after they pass away, as losing a loved one is always a tough event. While flower arrangements and other tributes are typical, there is a specific meaning associated with laying pennies on gravestones, especially for veterans and service members and their families.

A Tradition Worth Keeping

Though its exact roots are unknown, some have speculated that the custom of laying coins on gravestones originated during the Roman Empire. However, according to Snopes, there is insufficient evidence to back up this assertion. However, one thing is certain: people who have a strong bond with military people are aware of the sacrifices they make and are looking for a significant way to remember their lost colleagues.

It became increasingly difficult for people to express their emotions honestly during the Vietnam War. It became customary to place a coin on a soldier’s tomb to signify that someone had paid them a visit without running the danger of awkward talks regarding the political sides of the conflict. The gesture was a straightforward but effective way for people to express respect and unity.

Symbolic Honor Representations

Every penny placed on a gravestone has a special meaning associated with it. Here are few instances:

A penny is a sign that someone has paid their respects and visited the tomb.
Deeper emotional significance can be derived from a nickel, which represents a bond between the individual who left it and the dead soldier from boot camp.
A dime signifies cooperation, even if it was just briefly before splitting up.
The most important coin, the quarter, acts as a monument by informing the bereaved family that the person who left the coin was there during their time of grief.

These coins remind us of the sacrifices made by those who serve in the military and act as tangible representations of respect and tribute, bridging the gap between the past and present.

Past Gravestones

Not all military traditions involve coins, such as placing money on gravestones. Military troops are big fans of challenge coins, which have no monetary worth but are extremely significant. These coins, which stand for oneness, are frequently traded as trophies of friendship and honor.

Throughout history, coins have also had a variety of roles in cultural practices. They have been regarded as representations of good fortune, giving, and even riches. While this isn’t always the case, some people in the past were buried with their riches. For instance, it’s been reported that two dollars and fifty cents were buried with Abraham Lincoln’s eyes covered.

The deeper significance of laying pennies on gravestones is to commemorate and recognize the extraordinary efforts made by those who are serving in the military and their families, even though there may not be a clear relationship between money and this practice. It serves as a reminder to ourselves that their sacrifices are priceless.

Kevin Costner, 67, has found love again after a difficult divorce – and you might know her.


Months after his heartbreaking divorce from longtime wife Christine Baumgartner, it appears that Kevin Costner has maybe found love again.

According to rumors, the Yellowstone actor is dating singer Jewel; the two were recently photographed together at a tennis fundraiser for the Inspiring Children Foundation on Richard Branson’s Necker Island.

According to TMZ, the couple flew to the Caribbean together and spent almost a week in each other’s company. This, of course, follows the upheaval caused by Costner’s post-relationship legal fight with the aforementioned Baumgartner.

According to sources, Costner was taken aback by his wife’s choice to file for divorce in May of this year. From there, the tragic situation started to fall lower.

Christine filed for divorce in early May, alleging “irreconcilable differences.” They’d been married for 18 years.


“It is with great sadness that circumstances beyond Mr. Costner’s control have resulted in Mr. Costner having to participate in a dissolution of marriage action,” a spokeswoman for Costner said in a statement.

“We ask that his, Christine’s and their children’s privacy be respected as they navigate this difficult time.”

Baumgartner and Costner married in 2004. Cayden, 15, and Hayes, 14, are the couple’s boys, while Grace, 12, is their daughter.

Following Baumgartner’s lawsuit, she and Costner had a nasty dispute, with the former being kicked out of the family home – as per a prenuptial agreement – and the latter compelled to pay $63,209 per month in child support.

Despite the fact that Costner’s journey has clearly been a dark one, filled with grief, uncertainty, and a lot of stress he could have done without, it appears there is light at the end of the tunnel.

According to TMZ, Costner is in a relationship with US singer Jewel. As previously stated, the couple went to the Caribbean together, and one insider stated, “There was definitely something going on.” They were flirtatious, and when they were together, they both seemed to light up.”

Not only that, but Jewel made a social media note of Costner. “It’s an incredible time, and one I use to relax, rest, and play with my son!” she remarked of the tennis fundraiser hosted on Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands. This year, @kevincostnermodernwest was gracious enough to mentor our youngsters.”

According to TMZ, Costner and Jewel traveled back together. According to a source, Jewel is “picky,” and “she wants a good man, and Kevin fits the bill.”

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