5.28.26 MAY ANTIQUE & GLASS AUCTION
Lot 51:
Description
This vintage book-form pocket savings bank was manufactured by the Bankers Utilities Co. of San Francisco, California. The item is constructed with a metal body featuring a polychrome, embossed textured covering designed to simulate a leather-bound book. The front cover is embossed with gold-tone lettering for the First National Bank of St. Clairsville, Ohio. The top edge of the bank, designed to mimic book pages, is stamped with the marks: Bankers Utilities Co. San Francisco Patented July 3 1923 Made in U.S.A. The spine contains several inscribed blocks including Save and Have, Benjamin Franklin, Member F.D.I.C., and a shield-shaped emblem reading $10000 Maximum Insurance for Each Depositor. The presence of the 10,000 dollar FDIC insurance limit indicates a manufacturing date between 1950 and 1966. Functional features include a coin slot and a circular hole for rolled paper currency located on the top edge. The bank is side-hinged with a locking lid and includes two keys, one of which is currently attached to the body by a wire loop.
Condition report:
The bank is in good vintage condition showing signs of age and use. The polychrome finish displays surface scuffing, wear, and minor loss at the corners and edges. The metal surfaces representing the book pages exhibit moderate oxidation and a darkened patina. The hinges and locking mechanism are in functional condition. No missing parts are noted.
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