Tossing coins into fountains is a ritual as old as time itself. It’s a practice steeped in tradition, portrayed in countless films, and experienced by holidaymakers around the world. Whether it’s making a wish at the Trevi Fountain in Rome or dropping a penny into a local wishing well, the act seems almost magical. But what happens to all those coins?

The tradition of throwing coins into water has ancient roots, dating back to times when water was believed to have deep spiritual significance. In many cultures, water was seen as a life-giving force connected to gods, spirits, or other supernatural beings. By offering something valuable, such as a coin, people hoped to gain favour, secure good fortune, or have their wishes granted.

Today, the tradition of tossing coins into fountains has evolved but remains deeply rooted in cultural practices. Many participate in this ritual, often without giving much thought to where those coins go after they sink to the bottom. The coins that accumulate in fountains can amount to significant sums of money, especially in popular tourist destinations. But what happens to them next?

Journey of a coin

Once a coin is tossed into a fountain, its journey is far from over. Depending on the location, the coins might sit at the bottom of the fountain for weeks, months, or even years before they are collected. In some cases, especially in large, well-maintained fountains, coins are retrieved regularly.

At the Trevi Fountain in Rome, they reportedly collect around €3,000 in coins every day. That’s over €1.5 million a year! But these coins don’t just sit there indefinitely. Every night, the coins are gathered up, and the proceeds are used to fund charitable projects.

In less famous fountains, the process is similar but on a smaller scale. Coins are collected periodically, and in many cases, the money is donated to charity or used for the maintenance of the fountain itself. However, retrieving these coins is not just a matter of scooping them out and counting the cash. There’s a process involved, particularly because coins left in water for extended periods can suffer from tarnish and corrosion.

The impact of water on coins

Coins are designed to be durable, but prolonged exposure to water, especially outdoor fountains exposed to the elements can cause significant wear. Over time, the metals in coins can react with water, leading to tarnishing or even corrosion. This is particularly true for coins made of metals like copper or nickel, which are more prone to oxidising when exposed to moisture.

When coins are retrieved from fountains, they are often in a less-than-pristine state. Some may be beyond saving, and no longer fit for circulation, while others can be cleaned and returned to use. The process of cleaning and sorting these coins can be laborious, but it’s a necessary step to ensure that the money can continue its journey, whether by being recycled, reminted, or exchanged.

The role of Leftover Currency

This is where companies like Leftover Currency play a crucial role. Specialising in the exchange of foreign coins, old banknotes, and obsolete currencies, Leftover Currency offers a unique service that breathes new life into money that might otherwise be forgotten. Whether the coins come from the bottom of a fountain or the back of a drawer, Leftover Currency ensures they are cleaned, sorted and exchanged for usable cash.

For individuals or organisations managing fountains, Leftover Currency provides an essential service. Once the coins are collected and cleaned, they are often unsuitable for direct circulation due to the damage caused by water exposure. Leftover Currency takes these coins, evaluates their condition, and either exchanges them for new currency or recycles them, allowing the value to be preserved and redirected to more productive uses, such as charitable donations or operational costs.

Leftover Currency’s expertise doesn’t stop at coins from fountains. They also handle foreign currencies and old banknotes that banks and traditional exchange services may no longer accept. This is particularly useful for charities, museums, and landmarks that collect coins and banknotes from various sources, ensuring that every bit of currency, no matter how small, can be put to good use.

The legacy of a simple act

While the coins may not grant wishes, they do hold the potential to make a difference. The next time you find yourself standing before a fountain, coin in hand, ready to make a wish, remember the journey that coin will take. From the moment it leaves your hand to the time it’s collected, cleaned, and put to use, your small gesture becomes part of a much bigger story.

And thanks to services like those offered by Leftover Currency, even the coins that might otherwise be forgotten are given a second life, ensuring that they continue to make a positive impact long after they leave your hand.

To discover how your leftover currency, whether from a fountain or forgotten in a drawer, can be turned into something valuable, get in touch today!