A piggy bank is a small container used to hold coins and small change. Traditionally it has a slot for inserting money and either a removable stopper or a breakable body for retrieval. Many examples are shaped like a pig, but the term applies to any personal money box that encourages saving. For a basic introduction to its use in collecting coins, see collecting coins.
Design and materials
Piggy banks are made from a range of materials and in many sizes. Ceramic and porcelain figures are common, especially for decorative or collectible models, while plastic versions are lightweight and durable for children's use. Metal tins, glass jars and modern silicone containers also serve the same purpose. Typical features include a slot on the top, a sealed body or removable stopper on the underside, and often painted or molded details to resemble an animal or other motif.
- Common materials: ceramic, plastic, metal, glass, silicone.
- Access methods: removable plug, twist-off base, or designed to be broken.
- Variations: coin counters, themed designs, and novelty shapes beyond the pig form.
History and origin
The association between pigs and money boxes dates back to linguistic and craft traditions. One widely cited explanation links the name to the Middle English word "pygg," a type of clay used for household containers; jars made from this clay held money and were called "pygg jars." Over time the word was reinterpreted and artisans began crafting money boxes in the shape of pigs, turning a practical vessel into a visual pun. Pig-shaped money containers became especially popular in many countries during the 19th and 20th centuries as mass production of ceramics and toys increased.
Uses and cultural role
Piggy banks are often used to teach children basic saving habits, delayed gratification and counting skills. Parents and educators favor them as a tangible way to demonstrate how small, regular deposits can grow over time. For materials on teaching financial habits, see saving money. Beyond education, piggy banks function as souvenir items, promotional gifts and decorative objects.
Different cultures produce distinctive styles and motifs, and some collectors seek rare or antique examples. For design references and examples of pig-shaped items, consult pig-shaped containers.
Notable facts: while the pig shape is the most familiar, the essential concept is simple—a dedicated receptacle for informal saving. Modern analogues include digital piggy-bank apps and electronic coin counters that provide the same behavioral encouragement toward saving without a breakable container.