I have had this bank for a long time, but admittingly, do not know much about antiques or how to authenticate this thing. What I do know, is my grandson played with this bank, and somehow lost ( and I am unable to find ) the little round cover on the bottom, so the coins , when deposited, do not stay in the bank. I was told, these parts are available, but don't ask me how or where. The mechanics are perfect...put a coin into the cannon, press the lever, and it fires, amazingly into the chimmney. It's quite amusing and remarkable. Whoever buys it, will have fun with it. Good luck.