History of the Piggy Bank

Seemingly, pigs have been esteemed symbols in many myths and legends the world over. But when, where, and how did coin banks adopt the image of the pig? The short explanation for this customary shape might humor you.

During the Middle Ages, metal was both expensive and hard to find throughout Europe. Consequently, families used clay to create their household pots and jars. Usually the type of clay chosen to make these house wares was a clay called "pygg". Pygg is an orange clay, and it was used widely at this time in Europe because it was inexpensive. Whenever a typical household had coins to save, the elected bank would more than likely be a pygg jar. Inevitably, these pygg jars became known as pygg banks over time.

Later, in the eighteenth century, craftsmen were frequently asked to create pygg banks. Misunderstanding the request, the potters crafted banks in the shape of pigs and painted them likewise. These pig banks soon became popular, and even today piggy banks (shaped as pigs) are found around the world throughout diverse cultures.