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Vintage cast iron mechanical clown coin bank, Style No. 1784, made in Taiwan for Astra Trading Corporation of New York and found in its original Esco Imports shipping/retail packaging. Dating to approximately the mid-1970s, likely circa 1976, this colorful mechanical bank was made as a reproduction of the action penny banks popular during the late 1800s.
Place a coin in the clown’s outstretched hand and a lever moves the coin toward his mouth while his eyes roll and tongue moves as he “swallows” the coin. The bottom opens with a screwdriver-operated circular cover, as explained on the original instruction sheet.
Measures approximately 7 x 6 x 6 in.
Includes the original illustrated Cast Iron Clown Bank box and original printed instruction/history sheet. The bank shows light vintage surface wear and age-related marks consistent with use and storage. The original box has substantial age and storage wear including creasing, edge wear, tears and distortion, but remains together and displays the original clown graphics, Style No. 1784 and manufacturer/import information. Original instruction paper shows age toning and wear.
A particularly fun survivor for a mechanical bank, cast iron toy, clown or vintage toy collection, especially with the scarce original packaging and paperwork still present.
Vintage Kalamazoo is located in southwest Michigan and all of our items have been located in this area. All descriptions, attributions, and dating are provided to the best of our knowledge based on visual inspection and research using reference materials, professional collector and group inquiries, and publicly available online sources. If you have corrections, or historical insight regarding our items we welcome and appreciate messages! Happy shopping and hope to see you often!
