Magic Forums

My niece moved to another state recently. While unpacking she found a small metal tin tied with cord. Inside there were layers of tissue paper that contained a dime with some Ashes on it. She doesn't know when or how long this was in her home. She is a single parent. Her babies father hasn't been in the picture for some time. He was into spells n such. I'm Wiccan and haven't heard of this. Everything I find contains more than just these items. I don't know what type of spell it would be or if it's nothing at all put there just to scare her.
Does anyone know anything about this type of spell? I can't help her if I can't figure out the spell and it's purpose.
thank you.
Blessed Be