Money belt

The concept of money cat ( also short cat ) may have several different forms of the purse denote: An attached to your belt bag in various forms, mostly for storing coins, but also small valuable items such as rings, stones or precious metal pieces, or a belt with integrated coin pocket. The term is self-contained and was widely used in the Middle Ages.

Origin of the term

About the origin of the name, there are several explanations. It is possible to naming after preparation, because the belt bags were often made from the bladder of a cat (cats leather). Yet, it may also be because the shape of the belt worn sachet reminiscent of a cat's head.

More likely, however, is a derivation from the Old High German Chazza for " vessel, bags for carrying" respectively from the Arabic خزىنة Hazina checkout, safe deposit, treasury.

The cat was worn in the Middle Ages and again in the early and mid- 19th century, often decorated with jewelry beads or embroidery.

Nature

The Money Cat of the 19th century is a tube-like needle sealed at both ends bag made ​​of leather, but mostly knit or crochet. Is an elongated slot on the long side. If this hose hung over his belt, one gets two sacks in which the money is kept. The bag can be carried in the clothing to the outside or inside. Because the slot is on the longitudinal side which lies on the belt, the coins can not be accidentally lost. Often two metal rings also were attached as a closure. If paying the cat is taken from the girdle.

Historical and current end significance

With the advent of paper money, the practical value of the money cat was lost. The exchange value of coins became increasingly less so that wallet and purse were able to prevail in everyday use.

Contents has the money cat today in the phrase " scratch the cat " - as an invitation to act quickly. Who " rubbed " the cat in price negotiations, counted the coins contained in the bag by Above and strike without being seen but - that was close to making a purchase decision.