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Vintage Cast Iron Mechanical Bank Dentist Pulls Tooth Money

$20.00

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Description

Vintage Cast Iron Mechanical Bank Dentist Pulls Tooth Money.

  1. Design and Operation:
    • This charming bank is a reproduction made of cast iron.
    • It features a dentist pulling a tooth from a patient.
    • Here’s how it works:
      • Place a coin in the left pocket of the dentist figure.
      • Press the lever located at the feet of the figures.
      • The dentist extracts the tooth, falls backward against the gas bag, and the coin drops into the bag.
      • Simultaneously, the patient falls backward in the chair, throwing up their arms.
      • I had to work with it a bit to get the dentist to stay in position but once I figured it out, it was easy
  2. Historical Context:
    • The “Dentist Money Box” is attributed to the J. & E Stevens Co. from Cromwell, Connecticut.
    • While no patent information has been found, it did appear in the 1888-1889 Cinway Bros. Catalog as the dental bank, offered at $8 per dozen.
    • I have no idea the age of this as it was purchased with a lot of banks at an auction.
  3. Collectibility and Value:
    • Collectors appreciate these mechanical banks for their historical significance and craftsmanship.
    • Although this reproduction version is more accessible, the original antique versions can be quite valuable.