Antique J&E Stevens RECLINING CHINAMAN Cast Iron Bank

Exceptional and very rare "Reclining Chinaman" mechanical cast iron bank, manufactured by J&E Stevens. The bank was designed by James H. Bowen -- whose designs are called "ingeniously animated" by Norman's Bank Book -- and covered under an 1882 patent (he designed four banks in the 1880s covered under the same patent).

To operate this bank, you place a coin next to the man's right leg (it stays in place). When you press the lever at the end of the log (behind the man), he simultaneously flips his cards over to reveal four aces in one hand, and draws his other hand to his chin. The coin unceremoniously drops into the slot. This bank is in excellent condition, with no damage or missing pieces other than the bottom cap. There is some paint loss here and there, all of which is visible in the images below. There is some rust, most notably on the inside, that does not affect or bind the mechanism in any way. This is absolutely guaranteed to be authentic in every way and not a reproduction. All of its internal parts are guaranteed original. I believe the paint to be original. The bank works well and smoothly.

See images for detail and email me with any specific questions.

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Measurements: 8-1/4" long, 4-1/2" high.