At some point in our lives, many of us have imagined stumbling across hidden treasure or a long-lost artifact at a flea market or garage sale.
I know I have, and that hope is fueled by real-life examples of people doing exactly that. There are countless stories (and I’m sure you’ve heard of at least one) where someone unknowingly buys a valuable old painting for the price of a cup of coffee.
Of course, the term ‘treasure’ can mean many things. Most people immediately think of a pirate’s stash, a chest full of gold coins and jewels. But in reality, old family photographs or documents can be just as priceless to the right person. Often, these items carry stories that make them even more intriguing.
That’s probably what Randy Guijarro had in mind when he spent $2 at a garage sale for an old photo album, filled with what seemed to be ordinary memories.
The photos, clearly aged with time, appeared vintage due to their black-and-white tones. However, what no one realized was that one of those pictures contained a detail that would transform it into an extraordinary find.
Randy selected the album simply because the photos seemed cool and unique to him.
Once home, he began flipping through the images, when he came across a face he instantly recognized.
The face was none other than Billy the Kid, the infamous outlaw of the Wild West. Billy the Kid, or William H. Bonney, was one of the most notorious outlaws, shot dead in 1881 at the young age of 23 after a life on the run.
Not only was this a remarkable historical artifact, but Randy’s discovery was also worth a fortune.
Reports later confirmed that the photo Randy purchased for a mere $2 might be valued at an astounding $5 million!
Why do some people place coins on gravestones?
Coping with the loss of a loved one is a challenging journey, even when they rest in a visitable site. Many individuals express their deep connection by leaving intricate offerings like flower arrangements, and in certain cultures, even snacks. However, the tradition of placing coins on gravestones holds a distinctive significance, primarily associated with military personnel, carrying a profound meaning for veterans and their families.
The origins of the practice are somewhat unclear, with claims suggesting a historical connection to the Roman Empire, though lacking concrete documentation, according to Snopes. Regardless of its historical roots, one undeniable truth remains, those who serve in the armed forces, along with their loved ones, endure sacrifices that often surpass common understanding.
The custom of leaving coins on gravestones can be traced back to the Vietnam War era, where it served as a practical means of communication amidst the divisive political climate surrounding the war. Leaving a coin became a subtle yet meaningful gesture, avoiding potential contentious discussions with the soldier’s family about the politics of the war. This revelation is shared on the American Legion Website.
Beyond its practical origins, the tradition of leaving coins on gravestones has evolved into a symbolic act of showing respect and honoring fallen comrades. Each coin type carries a distinct meaning in this poignant practice. A penny symbolizes a simple visit, a nickel holds sentimental value as it signifies shared experiences in boot camp, a dime represents serving together, even briefly, before a transfer, and a quarter, perhaps the most significant, indicates that the individual was present during the time of death, offering solace to the grieving family.
This tradition of military personnel leaving coins is not the sole connection between the military and monetary symbols. Challenge coins, a beloved military tradition, have deep roots dating back to World War I, symbolizing unity among those who have served. While challenge coins hold sentimental value and represent unity, they lack any monetary worth.
Coins, as symbols, extend beyond military traditions, playing roles in various cultural practices. Coins are often seen as symbols of good luck, goodwill towards newlyweds, and objects for making wishes. Throughout history, there have been instances of individuals being buried with their wealth, although not necessarily in the form of coins. Abraham Lincoln, for instance, was reported to be buried with two-half dollars over his eyes.
While the specific symbolism of currency may remain unclear in the tradition of placing coins on gravestones, the practice signifies a bond that transcends superficial understanding. It serves as a powerful and enduring tribute, acknowledging the sacrifices made by those in the service and their families, ensuring their dedication is never overlooked or forgotten.
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