Tammany Hall Boss Tweed Cast Iron Mechanical Bank Old Antique
Patented in 1873 and produced from 1875 until around the turn of the century, the famous “Tammany Hall” mechanical bank has remained one of the most popular banks in the collecting community. The bank (according to most sources) depicts the infamous head of Tammany Hall, Boss Tweed, seated in a chair, ready to pocket a bribe with the nod of the head (the “bribe” was, in this case, a penny). So popular was this bank, these were actually reproduced in the 1930’s, and I believe that is what we have here! The front and back pieces of cast iron don’t quite line up, and the base dimensions are about 1/8 smaller than known originals. Those two criteria alone are enough for me to say this is not late 19th Century production. With that being said, I feel that this is quite an old reproduction, as rust has bled through the paint, there is paint loss and age toning to the lighter colors, especially the face. This is definitately not a cheap modern repro. The bank remains in good condition, showing signs of age, use, and wear. Age toning, paint loss, and dust build up commensurate with age is evident. Please see the pictures for more detail. Be sure to see our other listings for more historical antiques and militaria. The item “Tammany Hall Boss Tweed Cast Iron Mechanical Bank Old Antique” is in sale since Thursday, August 19, 2021. This item is in the category “Collectibles\Banks, Registers & Vending\Mechanical Banks”. The seller is “historical_antiques” and is located in Greenville, Pennsylvania. This item can be shipped to United States.
- Original/Reproduction: Unknown
- Featured Refinements: Cast Iron Mechanical Bank
- Country/Region of Manufacture: United States
- Modified Item: No