The Evolution of the Piggy Bank: From Ancient Money Containers to Modern-day Savings Jars
In today's digital age, we often wonder about the origins of common household objects like the humble piggy bank. Dating back to ancient times, the piggy bank has a fascinating history, rooted in cultural beliefs and the practical need to save money. Let's delve into the evolution of the piggy bank and uncover the unknown tales behind this beloved item.
Early Forms and Cultural Significance
The concept of the piggy bank originated long before any metallic coins. Ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, had coin storage devices that were either clay, wooden, or metal containers. Archaeologists have found these devices, filled with coins, dating back to around the mid-8th century BCE. These early money containers were simply any type of jar, box, or pot that could hold valuable items for safekeeping.
The Pig Shape and Prosperity
The term "piggy bank" gained particular popularity in the Middle Ages, when the pig shape became associated with prosperity and wealth. Despite there being no specific inventor or name origin, the pig symbolized good fortune in various cultures. This association may have stemmed from the idea that pigs, as creatures, are known for being gluttonous and hence, symbolizing wealth and good fortune in abundance.
A Legend of the Dutch West Indies
There is an interesting story from the Dutch West Indies in the early 1670s that claims the first piggy bank was inspired by a peculiar discovery. During a pig roast, a slice opened to reveal gold Spanish doubloons inside the pig's belly! This anecdote, although not substantiated by historical evidence, adds a unique flair to the piggy bank's evolution.
From Pygg to Piggy: A Linguistic Journey
There is some confusion and misinformation surrounding the origin of the term "piggy bank." Some sources claim that the name comes from "pygg," a type of clay used in pottery. However, these claims are grounded in myths rather than historical facts. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary and the Oxford English Dictionary suggest that "piggy bank" is more likely derived from the word "piggy," referring to earthenware products.
The Scottish Connection
In Scotland, the word "pig" was used from around 1450 to describe earthenware products, including pottery items. This likely explains the association between "pygg" and pig, as "pygg" is a variant of "pig." The term "piggy bank" first appeared in American publications around the late 19th century. An early example from The Oregonian in 1900 described the piggy bank as needing to be "killed" to retrieve the money.
Modern Piggy Banks: Shapes and Styles
Today, piggy banks come in a bewildering range of shapes and styles, with the pig's original form no longer as prominent as it once was. Modern piggy banks are found in everything from traditional pig shapes to quirky designs that do not resemble pigs at all. Despite the shift in form, the core purpose of the piggy bank remains the same: to encourage saving and provide a tangible way to manage one's finances.
Conclusion: The Piggy Bank as a Cultural Icon
The piggy bank has evolved from simple clay jars to multifaceted objects that span a wide array of shapes, sizes, and materials. Despite the lack of a definitive origin story, the piggy bank remains an iconic symbol in households around the world. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its simple functionality and cultural significance as a tool for saving money and promoting financial literacy.