The fascinating history of the piggy bank

We've all seen them. Those adorable pig-shaped containers where kids drop their pennies and dimes. But have you ever wondered where they came from? It’s pretty fascinating. Let's dig into the history of the piggy bank.

The origin of the piggy bank

Piggy bank-like objects have been in use in Europe since the Middle Ages. Clay jars were commonly used to store various items, including coins. Evidence of piggy banks has been discovered in ancient civilizations like Egypt and Greece. But the term "piggy bank" itself was coined much later.

History of the piggy bank name

Piggy banks didn’t start out shaped like pigs. There are a few theories on why these coin-storing containers were dubbed "piggy banks." One theory dating back 600 years suggests they were made from an orange-colored clay called "pygg." People used it to make all sorts of household stuff, including pots and jars. These "pygg" jars were also perfect for stashing spare change.

Over time, because "pygg" and "pig" sound pretty similar when spoken aloud, it’s likely folks started to mix up the words. By the 19th century, manufacturers thought, "Why not?" and started to make these money-saving jars in the shape of pigs. And that's how our modern-day piggy banks came into being.

The evolution of the piggy bank

Piggy banks have come a long way since their clay jar days. They’ve evolved from simple storage containers to symbols of prosperity. Now, they come in countless shapes, from dogs to ATMs to custom art pieces. Some digital piggy banks can track deposits and set savings goals. 

Piggy banks teach money smarts

Piggy banks are more than cute. They can be powerful tools for teaching kids about saving money. Every time your child drops a coin into their piggy bank, they can learn about the value of money and the importance of saving. Make it fun by letting your kids pick out their piggy bank and finding creative ways to encourage them to save.

Greenlight offers a great way to take those piggy bank lessons to the next level. Learn more in our Greenlight Learning Center.