We all have different traditions when it comes to commemorating and paying tribute to our loved ones who have passed away.
In today’s world, honoring the customs of others while commemorating the lives of the departed ought to come as standard practice. Some may choose to follow traditions or practices that the rest of us are not familiar with, but it doesn’t make them any less legitimate.
The same is true with gravestones and the ornamentation certain families choose to place over their loved ones’ last resting places. Coins being placed on headstones is one custom that is widely practiced and that you have probably witnessed at some point. However, why is this even a thing? And from whence did it originate? Continue reading to learn more.
Coins are traditionally placed on gravestones in cemeteries around the United States and other countries. When I was a little child, I first observed it when I was at my grandfather’s tomb, and even then, I started to wonder what it was all about.
Luckily, finding the beginnings online doesn’t need much research. Although it was previously thought that the practice originated with Roman military troops, a number of sources have disproved that theory in recent years.
Still, there’s a military connection to leaving pennies on gravestones. The American Legion Website states on one of its pages that it can be linked to the Vietnam War.
“Leaving a coin was considered a more practical way to communicate that you had visited the soldier’s grave than contacting the soldier’s family, which could devolve into an uncomfortable argument over politics relating to the war, due to the political divide in the country over the war.”
There are other reasons why veterans leave pennies on gravestones in memory of their fallen friends; occasionally, they do so in order to purchase a beer for them. Each coin represents a different meaning, according to reports.
For instance, a nickel is left by someone who served in boot camp with the deceased, whereas a penny just indicates that someone was present.
On the other hand, a dime represents a combined period of military service. Next are quarters, which inform the family of the presence of whoever left the coin at the moment of the loved one’s passing.
Ever notice a penny left on a gravestone? Were you aware of its meaning? Tell us in the comments below.
“My Cousin Vinny”: A Timeless Comedy Gem
The 1992 legal comedy “My Cousin Vinny” is still making people laugh and cry over 30 years after it was first released. This picture, which has Joe Pesci’s iconic performance and stars Marisa Tomei as the iconic Mona Lisa Vito, is cherished for its classic moments and ageless wit.
Shining as Mona Lisa Vito, Marisa Tomei
A real gem is Marisa Tomei’s performance as Mona Lisa Vito in “My Cousin Vinny.” Her captivating performance ups the ante on entertainment value and elevates the already enjoyable film. It makes sense that this part is still among Tomei’s best-loved creations.
The Hidden Mysteries in the Scenes
Did you know that the producers had second thoughts about a few of the actors in “My Cousin Vinny”? This fascinating fact demonstrates how unanticipated choices can have extraordinary results. It reminds us that sometimes the most unexpected decisions might end up being the finest ones.
Real People-Inspired Characters
The fact that numerous characters in “My Cousin Vinny” drew inspiration from real individuals is another fascinating feature. Joe Pesci, who gained recognition for his genuine performances, took inspiration from his childhood in New Jersey. He gave his Vinny a lot of characteristics from different friends, which helped him create a character that people could relate to.
The Film’s Origins
“My Cousin Vinny” came to be as a result of a lucky meeting. Screenwriter Delauter disclosed that he was inspired by an accidental encounter he had in the early 1970s with a candidate for the bar test. The basis for the plot of the movie was established by this interaction and the candidate’s will to succeed on the test despite failing it several times. It’s amazing to consider how a straightforward incident might lead to the development of a well-loved comedy.
An Essential Video
Before we wrap up, we’d like you to watch this incredible sequence and enjoy the hilarity of “My Cousin Vinny.” It brings out the wonderful chemistry between the performers and the film’s clever humor to perfection.
To watch the scene on YouTube, click the link below. Have fun!
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