Have you ever visited a cemetery and noticed small coins scattered around the monuments? This tradition has been practiced for centuries, and while its origins are not entirely clear, the act of leaving coins on graves is a meaningful gesture for many people. Below is an overview of this time-honored tradition.

What Are the Possible Meanings of Leaving a Coin?

Many people leave coins on graves as a symbol of respect and appreciation. It's a way of saying "thank you" to the deceased for their service or for the impact they had on the lives of others.

Another interpretation of this tradition is that the coins represent a form of payment for safe passage into the afterlife. In some cultures, it was believed that the deceased needed money to pay for the journey to the afterlife or to bribe the gatekeeper of heaven. Leaving coins on graves could have been a way of ensuring that the deceased had what they needed to make the journey.

Some people also view leaving coins on graves as a way of showing that the deceased is still remembered and loved. The act of leaving a small token on a monument can be a way of saying "you may be gone, but you are not forgotten." For those who have lost someone dear to them, leaving coins on the grave can provide a sense of connection and comfort, as if they are still able to offer a gift or tribute to their loved one.

What Are the Origins of the Tradition?

The practice of leaving coins on monuments has been around for centuries, but its origins are not entirely clear. One theory is that the tradition originated in ancient Greece and Rome, where coins were placed on the eyes or mouths of the deceased to pay the ferryman who would take them across the river Styx to the afterlife.

Another theory is that the tradition began in the United States during the Civil War. Union soldiers would leave coins on the graves of fallen comrades as a way of honoring their sacrifice and to pay for their journey home.

Regardless of its origins, the tradition of leaving coins on graves has continued through the centuries and has become a meaningful gesture for many people. Whatever its origin, many people follow this tradition as a way of keeping the memories of lost loved ones alive.

Since 1973, Tri-County Memorials has been helping families throughout eastern Connecticut celebrate their lost loved ones. Their monuments are custom-crafted to your individual needs, ensuring that the memories of those you’ve lost will never fade. Visit their website for more on their services, or call (860) 443-8744 to contact their Waterford location. To discuss your monument with someone in Norwich, call (860) 886-6200, or dial (860) 456-8658 for their Willimantic branch.