It’s often said that the best gifts come in small packages. But imagine opening a tiny gift to find a gold or silver coin inside. These small coins have a big history, especially during the holidays. Coins as Holiday Gifts have been part of holiday traditions for centuries. From stockings to figgy pudding, coins have made their way into the hearts and homes of people all over the world.
The Origins of Coins in Holiday Traditions
One of the oldest holiday traditions involving coins dates back to around 330 A.D. The story starts with Saint Nicholas of Myra, a kind bishop known for his generosity. Saint Nicholas secretly threw gold coins through the window of a poor family, helping them avoid poverty. Some of the coins landed in stockings that were hanging by the fireplace to dry. This led to the tradition of placing gifts in stockings, which later became part of the Santa Claus legend.
The Dreidel Game and the Tradition of Gelt
Another holiday coin tradition is tied to Hanukkah. This tradition began after the Maccabees’ victory over the Greeks, when Jewish children and religious scholars would exchange gelt (meaning “money” in Hebrew and Yiddish). Today, gelt is often given in the form of gold-wrapped chocolate coins, with symbols like the menorah on them. The dreidel game also became a fun way for children to play during Hanukkah, with the promise of receiving gelt as a prize.
Coins in Figgy Pudding: A Tradition Dating Back to the 1300s
In other parts of the world, coins have been hidden in figgy pudding for centuries. This custom, dating back to the 1300s, involves placing a coin inside a pudding, and the person who finds the coin is said to have good luck and wealth in the year ahead. This tradition remains a fun part of holiday meals in some countries.
| Holiday Tradition | Origin/Meaning | Coin Type | Modern Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saint Nicholas & Stockings | Gold coins for girls | Gold coins | Gifts in stockings |
| Hanukkah Gelt | Maccabees’ victory | Chocolate coins | Gelt during Hanukkah |
| Figgy Pudding Coin | Coin for good luck | Gold or silver coins | Good luck tradition |
| 19th Century U.S. Mint Proof Sets | U.S. Mint’s proof sets | Proof sets, gold coins | Popular holiday gift |
| Morgan & Peace Dollars | Popular in the 20th century | Morgan, Peace Dollars | Given to children |
| Modern Mint Products | Popular gifts today | Proof, uncirculated | Collector gifts |
Coins as Holiday Gifts in the 19th and 20th Centuries
During the late 19th century, giving coins as holiday gifts became more popular in the United States. The United States Mint began issuing proof sets that were perfect for holiday giving. Trade Dollars, gold dollars, and quarter eagles were commonly given as gifts. In fact, California Senator Leland Stanford is known to have given gold half eagles to his Senate pages during Christmas.
In the early 20th century, coins like Morgan Dollars and Peace Dollars were popular choices for gifts, especially for children. Along with silver coins, newly minted commemorative coins were often given as holiday gifts. Many of these coins were beautifully mounted in special display boards or festive packaging.
Coins as Modern Holiday Gifts
Today, coins are still a popular holiday gift. Proof sets, uncirculated sets, and other mint products are commonly given to collectors or anyone who enjoys numismatics. For those who are serious about collecting, a PCGS-graded coin could be a special and thoughtful gift, especially for someone who has a PCGS Registry Set.
Coins have evolved as holiday gifts over the years, but they still remain one of the best stocking stuffers. Whether they are gold, silver, or chocolate-wrapped, coins are sure to bring joy and a sense of tradition to the holidays.
Conclusion
Coins have been a part of holiday traditions for centuries, from their secret role in Saint Nicholas’s acts of kindness to the modern gift-giving of proof sets and commemorative coins. Whether they symbolize luck, wealth, or a deep sense of tradition, coins continue to be a cherished gift that captures the spirit of the season. They remain an exciting and timeless addition to holiday celebrations, making their way into stockings, meals, and collectors’ hearts across the globe.
FAQ’s
Why are coins given as holiday gifts?
Coins have been a tradition for centuries, symbolizing generosity, luck, and prosperity during the holiday season.
What is gelt in the Hanukkah tradition?
Gelt is money, traditionally given during Hanukkah, often in the form of gold-wrapped chocolate coins.
What are proof sets in coin gifting?
Proof sets are specially minted coins, often given as gifts, known for their high quality and collectible value.