National Brass Works Company

"Chandler's Bank" Mechanical Bank, American, circa 1900

Documentation

Signed

Origin

United States, Ohio

Period

1900-1919

Materials

Cast Iron and Sheet Metal

Dimensions

W.	4 in;	H.	5.63 in;	D.	3.19 in;
W.	10.16 cm;	H.	14.3 cm;	D.	8.1 cm;

Condition

Excellent. All Original with original Coin Trap

Creation Date

Circa 1900

Description

"Chandler's Bank" is a somewhat difficult bank to find, especially in all original condition. Considering the vulnerability of two parts; the drawer and the coin trap, it is more often than not found with one or both missing or replaced. This particular example is in excellent condition and completely original in every way, and the details of the manufacture are embossed on the base of the bank "Chandler's Bank, Pat Applied For, National Brass Works, Cleveland"; obviously manufactured by The National Brass Works Company in Cleveland, Ohio, circa 1900.

The action is simplistic, similar to other "Trick Drawer" banks. Open the drawer; place a coin inside the drawer; close the drawer and the coin disappears inside the bank. The coins are removed by unlocking the key lock coin trap, with the key provided (see image). You can see why the coin trap is often replaced since children were not that adept or prone to putting the trap back, the process necessitating the key and some dexterity skills.

The bank is predominantly made of cast iron (top, bottom, and front panels) with the other three sides made of sheet metal decorated with brass bands. The front is cast with a floral arrangement, flanked by two Doric fluted columns and the words "Savings Bank" embossed at the top.

Dimensions: 4" wide x 3 3/16" (at the base) 4 1/2" high (5 5/8" high to top of handle).

I am a leading specialist in the field of antique mechanical coin banks, having been buying, selling, and examining these fine objects for more than 40 years. This experience makes me well qualified to analyze, evaluate, and guarantee the authenticity of original examples.

Note: Please view the other mechanical banks that I have listed for sale.

Styles / Movements

Americana, Folk Art, Traditional

Incollect Reference Number

299678