American Cast Iron Mechanical Bank "The Stump Speaker" by Shepard Hardware

Live Auction

10" (25 cm.) Standing upon the cast iron base labeled "the Stump Speaker", is a black man with over-sized head to small body and even smaller feet, a valise at his side, painted costume of green suit, bow tie, and small tilted top hat. When the lever is released, his mouth opens and closes, the valise opens and closes, and his right hand releases the coin which falls into the valise. Designed by Charles Shepard and Peter Adams, Jr for Shepard Hardware, patented June 8, 1886 (incised on base). Structurally excellent, mechanism functions, original finish with very faded paint.