I have come to a threefold conclusion:

In the absolute sense, taking a few coins was stealing, as it was taking something that did not belong to me.

However, the problem is more complicated when taken seriously and realistically. The fact is that the coins belong to no one, and at the same time, everyone. Each coin was left in a public place without the owner's intention of ever seeing, using, or needing it again. For all purposes, it is identical to dropping coins in a parking lot. People realize, if they even think about it, that the coins must eventually be removed. They really don't care by whom this is accomplished, nor that it will be done. The main objectives of tossing a coin in are 1) sacrificing something of value, 2) seeing the shiny glint as the coin flies, and 3) the splash.

More important, though, was my intent. I never considered that it could be stealing, for the above reasons. That is, I assumed others would feel the same way. The wishers had received everything they expected of the coin, and, having no further use of it (people don't toss in a coin and then take it out again!), left it for anyone else.

gab"If it makes any difference, no one who had made a wish was around at the time, so no one felt their 'wish' was taken. I would never have grabbed the few if I knew someone present had recently tossed in a coin. For now, that will remain my position."by

Thanks for your thoughts.