This outstanding, original Cast Iron Mechanical Bank measures approx. 6 3/4" tall and 4 3/4" by 3 1/4" at the base. This Mechanical Bank carries the title "Jolly Nigger Bank" cast on the back of the bust. This Bank was patented in 1882 and manufactured by the Shepard Hardware Company for about 10 years before the rights were assumed by J. E. Stevens who produced the Bank for many years. The Bank offered here is a Sydenham & McOustra production from the second quarter of the 20th century.

    The following description was written in 1982 by Bill Norman in his article on the Mechanical Banks of The Shepherd Hardware Company published in Collectors Weekly Magazine:

     "Patented March 14, 1882, #12,814. - The Coin is placed in the palm of the hand when the Arm is raised automatically by a small projecting thumb-piece behind the left shoulder depositing the coin in the mouth: the tongue falling back and the eyes rolling upwards at the same time. Today, some people might find this characterization offensive. However, the black race was thought of as a happy-go-lucky bunch, which is reflected by the smile on his face. This bank was by far the most popular mechanical theme of all time. It was produced for 10 years by Shepard, which was followed with another 40 years of production by the J. & E. Stevens Company. In addition, many similar banks were made in England" (such as the Bank offered here).

    This wonderful, 1920’s Black Americana "Jolly (Negro) Bank" Mechanical Bank is very finely cast and retains the vast majority of its original surface paint. The paint is 100% original - the paint has never been restored, repainted, touched up or altered in any way. The Bank is in excellent working condition and the mechanism is smooth and as manufactured. There are no crack, breaks, chips, repairs or physical damage to the cast iron. The bottom plate / trap of the Bank is original as mentioned above. Please see the numerous scans below for a good indication of the condition of the surface paint on the Bank.

    A rare and original, 1920’s Black Americana, Cast Iron Mechanical Bank by Sydenham & McOustra, titled the "Jolly (N-word) Bank" and a fantastic addition to any collection!!!

    Please Note: The Mechanical Bank offered here is unconditionally guaranteed authentic, original and of the period - manufactured by the John Harper & Company in the second quarter of the 20th century. The Bank is backed by our “no questions asked” return policy and lifetime guarantee of authenticity.