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"Organ Bank" with Cat and Dog, Circa 1882, American

Creator: Kyser & Rex Co.
Offered by: Clive Devenish Antiques

Description
This American cast iron bank known as "Organ Bank" Cat and Dog, was manufactured by Kyser & Rex Company, Frankford, Pennsylvania in 1882. It conforms exactly to the patent papers and seems to be an upgrade to their earlier patent in 1881 with just a single monkey on top of the platform. The bank is completely original, which is unusual for this bank since the figures are quite vulnerable, as is the crank which can only be turned in one direction and is subject to breakage with rough play. The paint is also original. There is no touch up or restoration of any kind, the bank is in excellent condition.

It operates as follows: with the tray of the monkey level, place a coin on it; turn the crank clockwise. Continue to turn the crank; the monkey drops the tray depositing the coin into the slot provided on top of the platform while the cat and dog dance around to the "music" created by an internal bell which rings constantly. All the while the monkey tips his hat back and forth in appreciation for the deposit. A key lock trap at the bottom releases the saved coins. Patent date "1882" appears on the back of the bank (see images).

Dimensions: 7 3/4" high x 6 1/4" wide (with the crank) 5 1/4" wide (at the base) x 4" deep.

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 guarantee the authenticity of original examples.

More Information

Origin:	United States
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	Hand painted cast iron
Condition:	Excellent. All original paint and condition
Creation Date:	Circa 1882
Styles / Movements:	Americana, Folk Art
Incollect Reference #:	210780

Dimensions

W.	6.25 in;	H.	7.75 in;	D.	4 in;
W.	15.88 cm;	H.	19.69 cm;	D.	10.16 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.