Piglet /Glücksschwein (good luck pig).   For centuries, pigs have been symbols representing wealth or prosperity. In old Nordic mythology, the wild boar was considered sacred, a pet of the gods and symbol of fertility. For ancient Greek, Roman and later cultures, owning  pigs meant privilege and affluence.  “Lucky piglets” come in different forms in Germany—made from marzipan, glass, porcelain or as “piggy” banks.   We all know the importance of learning thrift from childhood on!

Four Leaf Clovers / Glücksklee  (lucky clover)   Because so rare in nature, it is simply assumed that they bring good luck. A four-leaf clover is said to make secret wishes come true, but only if personally found, not bought.  According to old Christian legends, Eve took a four-leaf clover from the Garden of Eden, for nostalgic memories of paradise.

Horseshoe / Hufeisen (hoof iron).  In earlier times, horses were valuable working animals and horse shoes protected them. Hanging a horseshoe above the door, with the open end pointing towards the sky so good luck is contained and doesn’t run out  is a very old custom among local rural people

Toadstools / Fliegenpilze (flies agaric) are actually small (poisonous!) mushrooms with white-dotted, bright red caps that sprout and proliferate in fir forests and beech woods. In old German fairy tales, toads sitting on mushrooms are pictured catching flies drawn to the toadstool, hence the name.  A fortunate person is a “Glückspilz” ( lucky mushroom).

Chimney Sweeps / (Kaminkehrer)  Cleaning chimneys of ashes and grime, the sooty craftsmen in black have for centuries reduced the risk of fires in households.  In olden days, fees for their services were collected at the start of each new year.  Sometimes chimney sweeps would bring a dated calendar page with their greetings – and get little gifts (tips) as their due rewards.  In fact, they were often the first well wishers and thus “good luck bringers.”  To meet a chimney sweep is a lucky sign – and even luckier is to  touch one of the silver buttons on his black uniform!

Lady Bug / Marienkäfer / Glückskäfer In German the lady bug is called “Marian Beetle” and symbolizes a gift from Holy Mother Mary especially for farmers, since ladybugs consume pests They also protect young and old, heal the sick and ailing. They have up to seven black spots on their red wings (in German-speaking countries the number 7 is considered lucky).  To this day many Germans believe you’re especially in luck if a ladybug lands on you!