Since 1902, Barnum's Animals Crackers have featured 53 different animals. That figure counts the different animal designs represented across the product's history, not the number of cookies in one modern package.
Animal crackers were already being made in the United States in the late 19th century, but Nabisco officially introduced the Barnum's Animals identity in 1902. The circus-themed name and packaging referenced showman P. T. Barnum and the popular Barnum and Bailey circus tradition. The original small box was designed to resemble a circus wagon and included a string so it could be hung from a Christmas tree.
The animal roster has changed over time. Modern packages contain a much smaller selection, including animals such as lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, bears, and gorillas. In 2002, the koala was added to mark the product's centennial, following a consumer vote.
The number 53 is often confused with the number of cookies in a box. A current package typically contains about 22 crackers, while 53 refers to the total variety of animals featured since the product's 1902 launch.