In the UK, trees with coins embedded all over their bark have been spotted on trails within forests. People put the coins into fallen trees in a tradition similar to a wishing well, with coins dating back centuries still embedded in the bark. This practice dates back to the 1700s – The legend said that a sick person could press a coin into a tree and their illness would go away. But if the coin is taken out, they then become ill. Another belief was that divine spirits lived in trees and they were often adorned with candy and gifts. The coins are usually knocked into tree trunks using stones by people who hope it will bring them good fortune. The trees often have coins from centuries ago buried deep in their bark and warped by the passage of time. The act is similar to tossing money into water for good luck or for couples to attach 'love padlocks' to bridges and fences to symbolize lasting romance.
