Taschenbeutel

Taschenbeutel is a German term for a small pocket pouch used to carry tobacco-related items. The object is designed to be kept in a coat or trouser pocket and typically holds cigarettes, loose tobacco, a pipe tool, a lighter, matches, and sometimes coins or small accessories. The concept has historically appeared in German-speaking areas alongside other tobacco accessories such as tobacco tins and cigarette cases.

Design and materials commonly include compact, rectangular or rounded shapes. Materials range from leather (calfskin, cowhide) to sturdy textiles (canvas, waxed cotton) or other durable fabrics. Closures vary from snaps and buttons to drawstrings or simple fold-over flaps. Some models feature a separate tobacco compartment, a protective lining, or a small flap to prevent spills. A belt loop or a chain attachment allows carrying on a belt or watch-strap.

Historical usage centers on the 18th through early 20th centuries, when smokers and travelers valued compact organizers for tobacco paraphernalia. Taschenbeutel complemented other personal tobacco items and reflected contemporary craftsmanship and fashion. With the rise of mass-packaged cigarettes and modern lighters, practical demand declined, though antique examples remain collectible.

In contemporary contexts, Taschenbeutel are mainly found as vintage or fashion items, sometimes produced as leather accessories or novelty pieces. In some niches, the term is used more broadly to refer to small pocket pouches for coins or tools, retaining the original German name in hobby or trade contexts.