The coin chime comes from Nintendo's Super Mario Bros., first released in 1985, where collecting a gold coin added to Mario's score and triggered the familiar rising ping. As Mario became one of the most recognisable game characters in the world, the sound travelled far beyond the console, appearing in sequels, cartoons, commercials and countless online edits. Its short length and instant association with earning something make it a handy shorthand for success, so creators still reach for it decades later.