This is an exceptional, highly collectible late Victorian-era miniature pocket bank known as the "Surplus Bank." Measuring approximately 1.75 inches tall, this mechanical/still pocket bank features a clever, compact cylindrical body constructed from high-quality nickel-plated brass. The top surface displays a beautifully crisp, stippled background centered around an embossed numeral "1", denoting its primary function for saving individual dimes or small coins.

Maker & Historical Details

The body of the bank is deeply and elegantly stamped with the ornate script maker's mark:

"Magic" Trade Mark / Introduction Co New York / "Surplus" Bank / Pat. Mch. 31, 91

The "Introduction Co" references the famous Magic Introduction Company of 321 Broadway, New York, a highly sought-after novelty manufacturer of the late 19th century renowned for producing pocket lighters, magical novelties, and subminiature cameras (such as the Photoret).

Mechanical Operation: The bank operates on a threaded, knurled twist-off base. Coins are dropped via the horizontal slot at the upper edge of the cylinder, and the base remains securely locked or twisted depending on internal pressure or full capacity, designed to encourage consistent thrift.

Reference

• Book Title: The Penny Bank Book: Collecting Still Banks

• Author: Andy Moore & Susan Moore

• Page Number Reference: Page 104 (Note: Similar miniature cylindrical pocket banks and Magic Introduction Co. novelties from the 1890–1895 era are well-cataloged within standard reference literature for American still banks, highlighting their intersection with Victorian coin-saving culture.)

Condition Report

• Overall Condition: Excellent Antique Condition.

• Surface: The original nickel plating shows a magnificent, honest historical patina with soft handling wear and minor oxidation consistent with age. No aggressive chemical cleaning has been performed, preserving the dry, historic finish prized by seasoned collectors.

• Structural Integrity: The metal body is completely free of deep dents, splits, or compromised seams. The top coin slot is clean and unbent.

• Mechanism: The knurled base threads smoothly and pairs tightly with the upper cylindrical body.

Authenticity Assessment

This piece presents all the textbook authenticity markers of a late 19th-century Magic Introduction Company production. The lettering exhibits authentic Victorian-era font geometry with natural variation in the strike depth. Crucially, the crisp, fine stippling surrounding the numeral "1" on the lid indicates a true period die-stamp rather than a soft modern reproduction cast. The knurled detailing on the base rim exhibits genuine hand-machined crispness alongside typical, age-appropriate pocket wear on the high points.

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Item Description and Condition Disclaimer

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