The Meaning Behind Coins Left on Gravestones


Leaving coins on gravestones is a longstanding military tradition with deep symbolism, especially in the U.S. and other countries. Here’s what each type of coin signifies—and why you might see them on veterans' graves.


The Symbolism of Coins on Graves

🇺🇸 U.S. Military Tradition

  • Penny (1¢): A general sign of respect, often left by visitors to show they’ve paid their respects.

  • Nickel (5¢): Indicates the visitor trained at boot camp with the deceased.

  • Dime (10¢): Means the visitor served alongside the fallen soldier.

  • Quarter (25¢): A powerful message—signifies the visitor was present when the soldier died.

💰 What Happens to the Coins?

  • Collected by cemetery staff and used for:

    • Grave maintenance

    • Burial costs for indigent veterans

    • Veteran support programs


Origins of the Tradition