Honoring Heroes: The Story Behind Coins on Headstones
When visiting cemeteries, you might notice coins left on the headstones of military members. These small tokens carry deep meaning, symbolizing respect and remembrance for those who served, particularly those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the Canadian Armed Forces.
This poignant tradition dates back to the Roman Empire, where coins were left as a mark of honor. Today, each coin denomination tells a story:
- A penny signifies someone visited to pay their respects.
- A nickel indicates the visitor trained alongside the departed in boot camp.
- A dime represents a shared service or mission.
- A quarter is the most profound, revealing the visitor was present when the soldier lost their life.
During the Vietnam War, this practice gained popularity in the United States. Political tensions made it difficult for visitors to reach out to grieving families directly, so coins became a discreet way to honor the fallen without sparking uncomfortable conversations. For Vietnam veterans, pennies also served as symbolic “down payments” for a beer or card game when they would one day reunite with their comrades.
Even in modern times, coins—alongside other small keepsakes like plaques or flowers—continue to adorn both military and civilian graves. These gestures are simple but powerful, reminding families that their loved ones are not forgotten.
On non-military headstones, coins still hold significance: a penny marks remembrance, a nickel reflects shared schooling, a dime indicates working together, and a quarter acknowledges being present at their final moments.
These small acts of remembrance keep the legacy of the departed alive, ensuring their sacrifices and lives are never lost to time.
