The idea of preparing for lean times is probably where the idea of the piggy bank came from. Its origins go back to the middle ages. So-called “Pig Jugs” were used primarily to store salt, but their use gradually changed over time and people started putting money in them. Then, in early 19th century England, the jug suddenly became the “Piggy Bank” as we know it today – greedily awaiting its diet of coins. Today, pigs are significant to humankind in three ways. Naturally, as culinary delights in the form of juicy hams or roasts. Pigs, however, also possess a symbolic character. For instance, in Germany people can be “pig lucky” and at New Year they give each other lucky charms shaped like pigs. And finally, piggy banks are still in use and it's not only children who excitedly look forward to the moment of reckoning when their contents are counted. |