Cast Iron Penny Banks Promote Next Generation Saving and Collecting

In the very early 1900's,  companies such as the Arcade Manufacturing Company,  A.C. Williams and Hubley began to produce cast iron still banks and toys. In the case of A.C. Williams, the toys morphed from salesmen samples to a booming toy business. Variety in subject matter, color, and size existed. Sometimes it is possible to find one with an advertisement embossed onto the figure. They were sold at department stores such as Woolworth's.

Red Goose Shoe Company Advertisement Penny Bank (Arcade)

These banks still have a great appeal!   The 1970's saw a renewed interest in cast iron penny banks, particularly the mechanical banks. John Wright Company purchased the Grey Iron Casting Company in 1969 and then began reproducing toys using the original Grey Iron and Hubley patterns. While these are plentiful and attractive, I prefer the banks of the early 1900's.

Finck's Overalls Advertisement Still Bank

As a way to encourage saving, I present each of my grandchildren with an old cast iron still bank as part of the birthday gift. It is my hope that they will become interested in antiques and collecting, as well. If not, by the time they are college age, these banks will continue to have value and can be turned into money for their education.

Bull With Long Horns Original Paint

 Hen

One must look for banks that have a tight seam which is held in place well by an original screw. The only way to remove money is to take the bank apart or learn the skill of sliding coins down a table knife inserted in the coin slot while shaking. (Best to keep them as a decorative item these days.) Loss of paint is to be expected. Most of the banks that I have to offer are animals.

Banks Showing Variety in Size and Subjects

There are lots to choose from at River City Antique Mall!

Cast Iron Still Banks

Cast Iron Elephant Still Banks

Cast Iron Pig Still Banks

Still banks from camels to cats

The selection includes pigs, cats, horses, donkeys, sheep, camels, bears, elephants, dogs, monkeys, rabbits, chickens, Popeye, and Santa....

Fairy Garden Decorating with Antique Miniatures

Fairy gardens are enjoyed by adults and children. Many plant nurseries feature fairy gardens designed with miniature plants, such as ground covers like stonecrop or sedum. Suddenly small stumps and logs take on a whole new world when mixed with the right plants, implements and, of course, fairies. Gnomes and other fantasy characters sometimes appear in the landscape, as well. Planter's Palette features an annual fairy garden festival.  Consider hunting for antique and vintage miniature wheel barrels, shovels, and pumps to add to your fairy garden.

Cast Iron Wheelbarrow with Rubber Tire Set in Moss

Four Miniature Antique/Vintage Toy Wheelbarrows

Miniature Pick and Shovel with Toy Wheelbarrow

Hens and Chicks Fill Water Basin

Cast Iron Coal Hod, Shovel, and Sauce pan in Cast iron

These small pieces help to create one-of-a kind fantasy landscapes. Add your own touches, such as marbles for garden gazing globes or moss to fill "planters." Please contact me if you are interested in these pieces. I also have a very tiny "wishing well" complete with bucket on a string which raises with a crank. All of these are antique or vintage toys. Most are cast iron.

Miniature Cast Iron Coal Hod Containing Moss