An anchor found on a grave is usually associated with a seaman’s life or the maritime profession.
When represented with a rope or a chain around it, the anchor may be a symbol of a former member of the Navy.
The first recorded use of rope and anchor symbolism was by the Lord High Admiral of Scotland in 1402. The symbol was subsequently adopted by the English Navy which, after the union of Scotland and England, became the British, Royal Navy. The U.S. Navy states: "The fouled anchor -- rope- or chain-entwined -- so prevalent in our Navy's designs and insignia is a symbol at least 500 years old that has its origins in the British traditions adopted by our naval service."
The anchor also has biblical connections and represents real and spiritual commitment and steadfastness. As Hebrews 6:19 reads: "Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast." The anchor as a symbol of Christian belief and commitment is also reflected in the great 19th-century hymn "Will Your Anchor Hold in the Storms of Life?"
In early Christianity, the anchor was also used as a disguised cross. Another meaning of the anchor is of Christ as the anchor which keeps us from drifting from the proper path. A broken chain on the anchor may represent the end of earthly life.
An anchor combined with an X, the Greek letter Chi, is a sign of hope in Christ.
It is however more common to find this symbol tattooed on the skin than on graves.