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There are some peculiar tradions to every culture. Each and every culture have their own ways of celebrating the life of a loved one who passed away and for memorializing their passing.

Much like the many coins seen on top of gravestones, these traditions have reasons familiar only to those who practice it. It may seem weird or confusing, but here's the whole story.

According to legend, any gravestone adorned with coins are those that belong to U.S. military veterans. Then, the coins are given by visitors who wish to show respect to these fallen soldiers.

The coin means that the visitor remembers the veterans. But the different amounts also mean different things.

First, a penny means that you appreciate the veteran for his service. A Nickel suggests that you trained at bootcamp with the soldier. A dime, on the other hand, means that you served with him or her. And lastly, a quarter signifies that you were with the veteran when he or she passed away.

The origin of the tradition is still questionable. But for those who practice this tradition believe that it started with the U.S. military veterans of the Vietnam War. America was feeling guilty about what happened and to avoid an uncomfortable situation, they left a coin to say their thanks.

That's all good, if it were really true. Of course, that's just a theory. Because Wide Ooen Country said that this practice, leaving coins on graves in America only started in 2009.

Where does the money go? Well, the proceeds usually go to the upkeep of the cemetery.

But the tradition of living gifts for the dearly departed can be traced for thousands of years. And the only verifiable coin tradition is the coins left by fellow veterans that contain the emblem of the deceased's military company or unit.


Source: Wide Open Country