Context: the informant, AC, describes a tradition where you throw coins inside of a new car.

“When you first get a new car, you’re suppose to take a bunch of coins and like throw it in the backseat so that it gives you good luck when you’re like driving so you don’t, its usually like parents or friends.”

Q: How did you first hear about?

“It was when I first got my car and my dad just came running out of the house and he had a bunch of coins and he just threw them in the back…I had never heard of it before. I was like ‘dad, what is happening?’ and he was like ‘Oh I don’t know its just good luck so you don’t crash.’ It like came from back then you had to put coins into tolls and so in this way people give you coins so you don’t run out of money when you have to pay a toll.”

Analysis: Throwing coins in a car seems to be a tradition done by many after someone purchases their own car. People close to the person, such as family or friends, begin to throw coins in the back of a car in order for the person to be protected from any car crashes. The ritual originated from when people had to pay tolls with coins. In this way, throwing money in the back of the car not only ensures your safety and protection, but makes sure that you have enough money with you whenever you need to pay a toll.