Carnival 101
"A History of Mardi Gras"

In the early days of the festivities, merry-makers used to carry
bags of flour that they would throw at each other. When a mischievous few
mixed pepper with their flour, the practice  had to be discontinued
and safer things thrown. These days, the typical throws are beads,
"doubloons" (fake coins), and, in recent years, Zapp's potato chips,
which come packaged in Carnival colors. Probably the most
valued throws are the hand-painted coconuts tossed by the krewe of Zulu. Onlookers vie energetically - sometimes boldly - to catch the most "stuff". Be warned - many an ordinarily gentle, little old sterling-headed grandmother will stomp your knuckles bloody for that aluminum doubloon, and that bamboo and rubber spear. Most important, never ever put your hand on the ground to pick up anything! If you want those beads or that doubloon, put your foot on it and don't lift your toe until you have it firmly in your hands.

Throughout the parade, masked riders stand atop  two and three tiered paper-mache, tractor-towed constructions from which they throw plastic cups, panties, and beads, as well as metal doubloons inscribed with the logo of the krewe, to the eager crowd. The riders often spend over $1,000. on their individual stock of "throws" to give out during the parade.