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Jimmy Durante Character Still Bank, American, 1940s

Creator: Abbot Wares
Offered by: Clive Devenish Antiques

Description
Whimsical and stereotypical depiction of the world famous entertainer and comedian of the 1930s-1950s, Jimmy Durante; known for his large nose. Manufactured by Abbot Wares, Los Angeles, California, circa 1940s, this bank was created by well-known American/ Italian sculptor Charles Romanelli, who also sculpted a life sized image of Elvis Presley. His name (signature) is embossed at the rear bottom of the bank "C. Romanelli" (see image).
The bank is in near perfect condition and even has the original circular twist coin trap at the underneath of the base. Bank is made of a copper plated zinc alloy. The coin slot is in quite a whimsical location placed at the top of Durante's nose. Durante's name is embossed at the base of the front (see image).
Dimensions: 7" high x 4 1/2" wide x 5" deep.

More Information

Documentation:	Makers Label/Invoice
Origin:	United States, California
Period:	1920-1949
Materials:	Copper plated zinc alloy
Condition:	Excellent. All original
Creation Date:	Circa 1940's
Styles / Movements:	Folk Art, Americana, Traditional
Incollect Reference #:	246717

Dimensions

W.	4.5 in;	H.	7 in;	D.	5 in;
W.	11.43 cm;	H.	17.78 cm;	D.	12.7 cm;

Message from Seller:

We are specialists in the field of antique mechanical coin banks. These rare and unique items were sold during the late 1800's and early 1900's to encourage and educate young children on the importance of saving money, with the majority of them having been made in America. We are leading experts in this field and one of the foremost dealers, having traded in mechanical banks since 1976.

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