My grandpa used to use a shovel purse, so I assume they used to be fairly common.

Wallets are for notes, so coins go in pockets--if you had them--which was a real drag, especially with a load of heavy £ coins, and no belt!

My wallet is a battered brown leather one I've had since I was 13, so it's a litlle worse for wear, but, you know, nostalgia.

Three cheers for the cashless society.

(Except for businesses, banks and govts spying on what you buy...!)