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Pair Scottie Dogs Atop “Book Themed” Japanese Puzzle Bank. Occupied Japan

Offered by: Clive Devenish Antiques

Description
Quite an unusual piece for bank collectors or just for those seeking a unique collectible. This is a coin bank made of all wood; walnut and inlay here and there; simulating a stack and shelf of books; a pair of “Scottie dogs” (terriers) on top of the bank completes the decoration. The slot on top of the bank accommodates the saving of coins. When it is full; the method of opening the bank to remove the coins, exemplifies the ultimate in Japanese ingenuity.

A video attached to the listing displays the foregoing.

With the books facing you; slide the two front bottom panels to the left; slide the bottom right panel forward (tilt forward) exposing the opening; slide out the enclosed loose key; push everything back; slide left half of front panel to the left; the middle book drops down exposing the key hole; insert and turn the key to the right to open; lift the hinged lid; remove coins and reverse the process to start over again. Fantastic item!!!

This bank was made in Japan, right after World War ll, during the occupation, around 1948. With these banks, it is all about condition and completeness, considering the rough play and use it was subject to from trying to figure out how to open it. This particular bank is in excellent and all original, complete condition with no repairs and no replacements, and is from my own personal collection of banks; having been in my possession since 1985. Worth noting is that this example was featured in “Antiquing and Collecting” magazine September 2003 edition in an article on Japanese Puzzle Banks.

Dimensions: 4 1/4″ wide x 3 1/8″ deep x 3 1/4″ high

More Information

Period:	1920-1949
Condition:	Good.
Creation Date:	1948
Styles / Movements:	Folk Art, Traditional
Incollect Reference #:	661707

Dimensions

W.	4.25 in;	H.	3.25 in;	D.	3.25 in;
W.	10.8 cm;	H.	8.26 cm;	D.	8.26 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.