COIN SUPERSTITIONS
—Antares
Greek Coin Superstitions: An Obol for Charon The practice of placing a coin in or on the mouth of a deceased person before burial is one of the earliest recorded superstitions. The phrase for this is "Charon's obol," since the old method required using an obol, a Greek unit of weight and payment. Charon was the ferryman who transported souls over the River Styx, which separated the worlds of the living and the worlds of the dead in Greek mythology. The coins were intended to be used as payment or, as others called them, bribes to Charon.
Chinese Coin Superstitions: "Lucky Coins" China is another old civilization with prevalent superstitions. The Chinese also have "lucky coins," which resemble old coins and include square holes in the center, which were commonplace among ancient coins to allow people to carry them on strings. Many think that tying a crimson ribbon around a coin awakens its power and that the best ones are connected with an endless knot, one of the Eight Auspicious Symbols. Even today, many individuals place three coins linked together by a red ribbon on essential papers. Others attach them to gifts, which is thought to double the enjoyment of the receivers. Feng shui practitioners also place money in the southeast corners of their homes to ensure financial well-being.
Roman Coin Superstitions Not to be outdone, the ancient Romans had their own beliefs about money, albeit they did use Charon's obol. The practice known as "The Touching," which began in Rome, saw Emperor Vespasian handing out funds to persons who were ill at a ceremony. Coins touched by leaders were thought to have healing abilities since the leaders who felt them possessed divine authority. This ritual persisted throughout European history, although with a monotheistic bent, with touching rites performed by French and English rulers until 1714. New Year's Coin Traditions While the English no longer carry on that custom, another one lives on in many of the country's homes today. Christmas pudding is a classic Christmas meal that has developed over time. During the making of the pudding, a coin would be inserted into it. Whoever receives it in their dish will have an excellent new year. End-of-the-year rituals to bring fortune in the new year are not exclusive to the English. Belgians and Poles each have their own. Belgians who want to bring luck for the new year drop a single penny under their plates on New Year's Eve. A bit earlier in the month, Poles wash their faces with coins on Dec. 23 to ensure prosperity throughout the new year.
Other Coin Superstitions According to many people in several regions of the world, particularly Argentina, a single penny may rescue a relationship. Knives are considered unlucky as wedding presents since they are thought to shatter partnerships. This can be an issue, especially for those who know folks who enjoy cooking. Fortunately, the recipient can offer a cent to make the transaction an exchange rather than a gift, thereby salvaging the relationship.
Reference:
Superstitions Surrounding Coins - ModernCoinMart. moderncoinmart.com/blog/a-little-bit-of-luck-superstitions-surrounding-coins