This custom is most commonly associated with military graves in the United States and has been practiced for decades. Rather than signing a guest book or leaving a note, visitors leave coins to show that they personally visited the resting place. It is a subtle but powerful way to acknowledge service and sacrifice. Over time, this practice developed its own symbolic language, where different coins carry different meanings. What looks simple on the surface is actually a deeply thoughtful system of honoring shared history and commitment.
Each type of coin tells a unique story. A penny is the most common and represents remembrance, letting the family know that someone took a moment to stop and reflect. A nickel signifies that the visitor trained alongside the service member, often during early military preparation. A dime carries even deeper meaning, showing that the visitor served in the same unit and shared time and experiences during active duty. These distinctions may be small, but they form a meaningful bond among those who understand the tradition.Continue reading…
