Vintage Cast Iron Mechanical Bank Dentist Pulls Tooth Money

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.