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"Hall's Excelsior" Cast Iron Mechanical Toy Savings Bank. American, Circa 1869

About the Item

"Hall's Excelsior" mechanical bank (as this is referred to) is recognized as the first example of a manufactured mechanical bank; having been made by the J. & E. Steven's Company of Cromwell, Connecticut in 1869; and designed by John D. Hall. It is made of cast iron with a wooden cashier monkey and desk interior. It came in a variety of color variations, this tan version is probably the most rare. The bank is in very good and all original condition (especially after 150 years), which is quite unusual for this bank as the wooden desk and monkey cashier are more often than not, replacements. Although "Halls Excelsior" enjoyed widespread production and a long term popularity (1869 to say 1877), and being quite ubiquitous as regards existing examples, completely original examples are few and far between; especially as regards the wooden monkey cashier and desk in front of him. The bank is in all original paint and there is no restoration. I have examined with a black light and loop and the paint reflects original rendition period paint. This example is also one of the first "Hall's Excelsior's" to be made, evidenced by the fact that there is no provision for removing the coins other than taking it apart via the round nut and screw on the underneath. This would have made this bank even more rare as putting the bank back together can be quite challenging----especially for a child. Later examples provided a coin trap receptacle To operate: gently pull on the glass knob in front which is attached to a string as the lid pops up and exposes the monkey cashier sitting in front of a desk; place a penny on the desk top and release the knob as the coin is deposited into the bank (see operational video which accompanies the listing). "Hall's Excelsior" mechanical bank is a great addition to an antique toy or bank collection; or for someone who simply wants a representative folk art piece of Americana. Dimensions: 4" deep x 4" wide x 5" high (3 5/8" base plate front of steps to back) I am a leading specialist in the field of antique mechanical coin banks, having been buying, selling, and examining these fine objects for 40 years. This experience makes me well qualified to analyze, evaluate, and warrant the authenticity of original examples. I guarantee the toys and banks that I have listed to be original examples and authentic. NO REPRODUCTIONS. Note: Please see my other mechanical bank listings I am offering for sale.
  • Creator:
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 5 in (12.7 cm)Width: 4 in (10.16 cm)Depth: 4 in (10.16 cm)
  • Style:
    Folk Art (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
    1860-1869
  • Date of Manufacture:
    Circa 1869
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Incline Village, NV
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU973244167312

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