One theory that circulates online is that criminals sometimes use small objects, such as coins, to keep a car door from fully locking. In some older vehicle models, wedging a penny in the door handle could potentially prevent the lock mechanism from engaging properly, giving a thief easier access once the owner walks away. However, it’s important to recognize that this isn’t a widespread or confirmed tactic; in fact, modern cars with electronic locking systems would not be affected by this method at all. Still, the idea persists because people instinctively associate unusual signs around their vehicles with attempted tampering. Whether or not this was the intention, noticing an unfamiliar object is always a good reason to double-check your vehicle’s security.
Another, far more common explanation is accidental contact or harmless mischief. It’s entirely possible that someone walking by dropped a coin, a child played a prank, or the wind pushed a loose object into the handle. Parking lots often see a lot of activity—people unloading groceries, dropping change, or brushing against cars without realizing. In environments like shopping centers, schools, or busy public spaces, strange little discoveries like this are simply part of the everyday unpredictability of shared areas. While it’s easy to read deeper meaning into the situation, not every odd occurrence signals malicious intent. Still, being observant and cautious is never a bad thing.
