We all have different traditions when it comes to commemorating and paying tribute to our loved ones who have passed away.
In today’s world, honoring the customs of others while commemorating the lives of the departed ought to come as standard practice. Some may choose to follow traditions or practices that the rest of us are not familiar with, but it doesn’t make them any less legitimate.
The same is true with gravestones and the ornamentation certain families choose to place over their loved ones’ last resting places. Coins being placed on headstones is one custom that is widely practiced and that you have probably witnessed at some point. However, why is this even a thing? And from whence did it originate? Continue reading to learn more.
Coins are traditionally placed on gravestones in cemeteries around the United States and other countries. When I was a little child, I first observed it when I was at my grandfather’s tomb, and even then, I started to wonder what it was all about.
Luckily, finding the beginnings online doesn’t need much research. Although it was previously thought that the practice originated with Roman military troops, a number of sources have disproved that theory in recent years.
Still, there’s a military connection to leaving pennies on gravestones. The American Legion Website states on one of its pages that it can be linked to the Vietnam War.
“Leaving a coin was considered a more practical way to communicate that you had visited the soldier’s grave than contacting the soldier’s family, which could devolve into an uncomfortable argument over politics relating to the war, due to the political divide in the country over the war.”
There are other reasons why veterans leave pennies on gravestones in memory of their fallen friends; occasionally, they do so in order to purchase a beer for them. Each coin represents a different meaning, according to reports.
For instance, a nickel is left by someone who served in boot camp with the deceased, whereas a penny just indicates that someone was present.
On the other hand, a dime represents a combined period of military service. Next are quarters, which inform the family of the presence of whoever left the coin at the moment of the loved one’s passing.
Ever notice a penny left on a gravestone? Were you aware of its meaning? Tell us in the comments below.
At 61, Meg Ryan Makes a Rare Public Appearance and Looks Unrecognizable
At 61 years old, Meg Ryan made her first public outing in 6 months. She was seen at the screening of Michael J. Fox’s documentary, supporting her old friend. She looked unrecognizable compared to her previous appearances.
Meg Ryan, who has consistently denied undergoing any plastic surgery or enhancements, showcased wrinkle-free skin, a plumper pout, and her trademark blonde locks.
Over the years, the appearance of the Golden Globe nominee has changed significantly, fueling numerous rumors about whether or not she has undergone any cosmetic procedures.
When asked about the speculation surrounding her plastic surgery, she stated in an interview, “I don’t pay a lot of attention, frankly.”
Focusing on building her family, Ryan is almost entirely absent from the public eye. She adopted a child and is a single mom of 2.
There’s no doubt that Meg Ryan is an inspiration for us all. She chooses to look beyond people’s judgments in all aspects of her life and refuses to let public opinion define who she truly is.
Preview photo credit Tristar/Collection Christophel/East News, © Michael Simon/Shutterstock
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