Coins are indeed a medium of transaction but also one of the magnificent specimens testifying to historical heritage and being a work of art. Many coins have secret messages and/or symbols that tell unique stories of history, culture, and society. There are numerous coins spread out over the world whose secrets have left people amazed. Let us know about them, about 9 such coins with amazing symbols and secret messages hidden.
1. US Dollar’s ‘Eye of Providence’
(Symbiology: Divine Eye)
The US one-dollar coin has the ‘Eye of Providence’ depicted in a triangle. The same symbol also appears on the ‘Great Seal’ of America. The symbol is mysterious. People often link it with ‘Freemasonry’ and think it is the symbol of divine vision. It indicates that a higher being is spying on everything happening around. It also stands for the basic principle that America stands for good morality and freedom.
2. Britain’s 2-pound coin: Message hidden in Morse code
(Symbol: End of World War II)
The British two-pound coin has a special design engraved on it, which looks normal at first glance, but on closer inspection, it has hidden dots and dashes of Morse code. These codes form the word ‘1945,’ which was the year of the end of World War II. This coin pays tribute to the brave codebreakers who played a key role in helping the Allied forces win during the war.
3. Canada’s ‘Lucky Lonnie’
(Symbol: Lucky Coin)
Canada’s one-dollar coin is called a ‘loonie’ because it has an image of Canada’s famous bird ‘loon’ on it. But an interesting story makes it even more special—during the 2002 Winter Olympics, a loonie coin was buried under the ice to bring good luck to the Canadian hockey team. Canada won the gold medal that year, and the coin has become known as the ‘Lucky Loonie’ ever since.
4. Australian Dollar’s Hidden Star
(Symbol: Connection to Commonwealth)
Australia’s one-dollar coin has a secret five-pointed star hidden in the neck design of Queen Elizabeth II’s portrait, if looked at carefully. The star represents Australia’s connection to the British monarchy and the Commonwealth. This hidden symbol in the coin’s design makes it all the more interesting.
5. Euro Coin: Owl of Athena
(Symbol: Wisdom and Knowledge)
Some euro coins have the image of the ‘Owl of Athena,’ which was considered a symbol of wisdom and knowledge in ancient Greek culture. The owl is associated with the goddess Athena and represents the cultural and intellectual heritage of the whole of Europe. The European Union associates this symbol with its ideals—unity, education, and prosperity.
6. Mexico’s 10 Peso Coin: Aztec Calendar
(Symbol: Heritage of Ancient Civilization)
Mexico’s 10 Peso Coin shows the intricate carvings of the calendar stone of the Aztec civilization. It is not just a time-measuring device but also a historical heritage. The Aztec calendar reflects Mexico’s rich ancient culture and its scientific understanding.
7. South African Rand Coin: ‘Big Five’ Animals
(Symbol: Africa’s natural beauty and wildlife)
Some South African coins feature images of the ‘Big’ Five’—lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and Cape buffalo. These coins are symbols of Africa’s biodiversity, natural beauty, and conservation efforts. These coins also convey the message of preserving Africa’s environmental heritage.
8. Japanese 100 Yen Coin: Sakura Blossom
(Symbol: Transience of life)
Japan’s 100 yen coin has the shape of ‘Sakura’ (cherry blossom), which is considered highly important in Japanese culture. Cherry blossom represents the transience of life and its beauty according to Japanese philosophy. It teaches us that life is brief, but it should be lived to the fullest.
Conclusion
Coins are not just a medium of exchange; they also hold a whole story within themselves. Some coins commemorate historical events, while others make their mark through secret symbols and messages. Whether it is the US dollar’s ‘Eye of Providence’ or the Indian Rs 10 coin variety, all these coins reflect the history and cultural heritage of their respective countries.
So the next time you hold a coin in your hand, take a close look at its design—who knows, it might also have a unique secret hidden in it!
FAQs
Q.1 What does the ‘Eye of Providence’ on the US dollar coin mean?
A. It is a triangular symbol that represents divine vision and is linked to the core beliefs of America.
Q.2 Why does the British 2-pound coin have Morse code?
A. It has ‘1945’ written on it in Morse code, which marks the end of World War II.
Q.3 What are hidden messages in coins?
A. Hidden messages in coins refer to symbols, patterns, or inscriptions embedded in their design that carry historical, cultural, or secretive meanings.
Q.4 Why do some coins have hidden symbols?
A. Many coins feature hidden symbols as a tribute to historical events, national heritage, or secret societies, adding depth to their significance.
Q.5 What is the hidden message on the U.S. dollar coin?
A. The U.S. dollar coin features the Eye of Providence, symbolizing divine oversight and often linked to Freemasonry.