Kangaroos, Coin Purses, and Money History: An Aussie Tale with a Twist

Explore the surprising history of kangaroos on currency and the modern resurgence of coin purses, blending Australian numismatics with high fashion.

From kangaroos hopping across Australian coins to Kendall Jenner flaunting a vintage coin purse, it's a wild mix of down-under history and high-fashion nostalgia. Let's dive in!

Kangaroos on Coins: A Numismatic Journey

Did you know the first kangaroo on money wasn't even in Australia? It was in England in 1795! Thomas Hall, a London taxidermist, put 'The Kanguroo' on a half-penny token. Fast forward to today, and kangaroos are iconic on Australian currency, from the dollar coin to special edition releases like the Paris Olympic Games series.

The Banks Connection

The early depictions of kangaroos on money are linked to Sir Joseph Banks. The design for representing kangaroos could have been passed on by Mathew Boulton to his son who ran the mint by the time the dated 1823 silver kangaroo token was made.

Evolution Through the Years

Kangaroos hopped onto Australian trade tokens in the 19th century, often in coats of arms. After federation, they became a staple on official currency. From the first sixpence in 1911 to the modern dollar coin, these marsupials have become a national symbol.

The Coin Purse Comeback: Kendall Jenner's Nod to Nostalgia

Spotted: Kendall Jenner rocking an itty-bitty coin purse! This isn't your grandma's accessory—well, actually, it is. Coin purses with kiss-lock closures, popular in the 1920s, are back. Jenner's micro-mini moment proves that sometimes, less is more.

From Runways to Reality

Coach's creative director, Stuart Vevers, has even released oversize versions, while others offer smaller top-handle styles. With endorsements from style icons like Taylor Swift and Kendall Jenner, coin purses are officially en route to It-bag status.

Aussie Coins Meet High Fashion

So, what's the connection? It's all about history repeating itself with a modern twist. Just like kangaroos evolved from obscure tokens to national symbols, coin purses are hopping from vintage obscurity to high-fashion fame.

Who knew kangaroos and coin purses had so much in common? From the outback to the runway, it's a stylish journey through history that's as fun as finding a rare kangaroo coin in your pocket change. Keep your eyes peeled—you never know what treasures you might discover!