The Piggy Bank

A piggy bank is a small container used to save coins. It is often shaped like a pig with a slot on top for dropping in money. Kids all around the world use piggy banks to learn about saving.

Why Is It Called a Piggy Bank?

The name piggy bank may have come from a type of clay called pygg. In the Middle Ages, people kept their coins in jars made of pygg clay. Over time, people forgot about the clay and started making the jars in the shape of pigs.

Another story says that pigs have round, plump bellies that are perfect for holding lots of coins. Whatever the true reason, the pig shape became the most popular money-saving container for kids.

Saving Money with a Piggy Bank

Using a piggy bank is a great way to learn about saving money. Every time you get some coins, you drop them through the slot. Over time, the coins add up to a surprising amount.

Some piggy banks have to be broken to get the money out. Others have a plug on the bottom so you can reuse them. Today, there are even digital piggy banks that count your coins as you drop them in.

Fun Facts

• The name piggy bank may come from an old type of clay called pygg.
• The largest piggy bank ever was over 14 feet long.
• Some digital piggy banks can count your coins and display the total.

Did You Know?

In Germany, giving someone a piggy bank is considered good luck, especially on New Year's Day.