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Why This Tradition Still Matters Today
In a fast-paced, digital world, rituals like this slow us down.
Leaving a coin requires:
- Presence
- Intention
- Awareness
It’s not performative. There’s no audience. Just a quiet moment between a visitor and a memory.
That’s why the tradition has endured.
Is It Disrespectful to Remove Coins?
This is an important question.
In general:
- Coins should not be removed by visitors
- Cemetery staff may collect them for maintenance
- Families often leave them in place
Removing coins for personal use is considered disrespectful, as each coin represents a message meant to stay.
How to Participate Respectfully
If you choose to leave a coin, keep these guidelines in mind:
- Place it gently on the headstone, not forced into cracks
- Leave only one coin per visit
- Be mindful of religious or cultural customs
- Act quietly and respectfully
There’s no need for ceremony. The act itself is enough.
Emotional Impact on Families
For families of the deceased, finding coins on a gravestone can be deeply moving.
It confirms that:
- Their loved one mattered
- Their service or life is remembered
- Strangers still care
Many families say the coins bring comfort, especially on difficult anniversaries or holidays.
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