Antique 19th Century Cast Iron J. & E. Stevens Novelty Mechanical Bank

Circa 1873: The J. & E. Stevens Company of Cromwell, Connecticut manufactured Charles H. Johnson’s Novelty Bank in many color patterns, and this handsome red, yellow, and blue variation is a real stunner. The Novelty bank one of the earliest mechanicals and is almost always found with a cracked roof, but this example comes to the market with no chips, cracks, or repairs, a wonderful untouched paint decorated surface, and fine action. Even the often replaced wire on the door is original. Note that even the highlights on the dormer windows are still present. This is a terrific Novelty Bank from the beginnings of the great age of mechanical banks and will be a fine addition to any collection of antique banks, early toys, or American antiques.