Coin cakes are traditionally made for New Year’s Eve; and any cake recipe will do, providing a coin is put into the batter before baking (just be sure to alert everyone it’s there, so nobody accidentally swallows it).
The important part of a coin cake is the cutting and serving thereof. The first piece cut is always set aside for the house. The next piece goes to the head of the household. Then the rest of the cake is cut and served according to the ages of the people present, beginning with the eldest and working downward to the youngest. Tradition says that whosoever gets the coin will be prosperous and lucky in the coming year. And if the coin turns out to be in the piece set aside for the house, the entire household will enjoy good fortune.
Happy New Year! :-)