What do coins left on military headstones mean?

Have you ever seen coins left on tombstones and wondered what the reason could be? Listen as our lawn division manager Dan Smalt explain.

On July 15, 2019 several members from our team were given the privilege of participating in the 23rd annual Renewal & Remembrance at the Arlington National Cemetery. Over 400 landscape and lawn care professionals from 28 states came together to donate services and materials to care for and beautify one of our nation’s most hallowed places.

[richdudley]

I yearly take a roll of quarters and dimes to honor the men I served with and those that I witnessed their departure from this Earthly plane. As a USAF PJ for 3 tours in Vietnam, I cannot remember the names of the men, and women, that I helped that survived. BUT I can remember EVERY name of those that did not!

[craigsmith]

As a past sentinel at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier we always put two dimes and a penny (.21 cents) on the tomb stones of unknown soldiers symbolizing the 21 steps we take on the mat and a 21 gun salute. We toured the cemeteries in France, (especially Normandy) and carried on that tradition recognizing the unbelievable bravery of those young men who gave the ultimate sacrifice to keep our countries free. Tomb Guard badge 144

[mikeoxlong]

I was metal detecting one day and I got a bicentennial quarter..later that day I stumbled upon an ole revolutionary War graveyard...the big stone was still readable, and the guy died in the battle of Lexington Concord....it only seemed right to leave the quarter on the stone.

[lgarcia]

I did not know the etiquete. Glad I watched this. Thank you to all of those who served and are still serving our country

[catlover]

Thank you sir for the explanation.
I always wanted to know the purpose of the coin on the grave.
Great video 🇺🇸

[catherineaiello]

As a Veteran during peace time, I appreciate the information because I had no idea. Thank you.

[mikeschumacher]

RADM Leonard was an absolute hero. His entire family were dedicated members of our armed forces. His father being a Colonel and one brother achieving Maj. General. William served in WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. A very rare achievement.

[leslieschott]

I’de been to Arlington National Cemetery years ago; I wish I’d known this then…..I’d have been weighed down with pennies! THANK YOU, our wonderful military, for your sacrifice. This brought tears to my eyes.

[pureblood]

Not enough coins in Fort Knox to commemorate these men and women! God bless America and those who have given all!🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[buffystclair]

I knew leaving a coin was a way of indicating someone had visited the grave, I did not know the meanings of which coin you left and the meanings. Thank you for this explanation. Thank you to all service men and women who served and sacrificed

[nancycalhoun]

Always wondered why. Thank you for posting.

[dave-d-grunt]

My good friend Ricky B passed in 2006. He was a 2 year Marine I served with from boot camp until his EAS. I always leave a penny, a dime, and a nickel when I visit him at the Vacaville Veterans Cemetery.

[lindaj]

This had me in tears. Thank you to those willing to serve and to sacrifice their lives for the freedom of others around the world. ❤

[earl]

I slipped a crisp 100 bill into my dad's suit pocket the day we laid him to rest.
*To pay the ferry man.
** Just in case

[rosalindgibbs]

I have saw coins on tombstones he
taught me something new.

[mrs.jackson.]

Thank You. Your video popped up and I had to watch it. Years ago, someone left a coin on my brothers headstone. I thought it was odd. After watching this video, it made me smile.

[sherryweems]

Thank you so much for the information!🙏❤️🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲

[kenvandevoort]

I do this every Memorial Day. When I leave a penny, I also leave a salute.

[angiemottershead]

I love that. I now know. So meaningful. Much love to families who's loved one's made the ultimate sacrifice. ❤ from UK.

[KLUJICS]

That is a sacred, cathartic, and honorable gesture. People need to LEAVE THEM!