Offered here is an authentic antique American cast iron still penny bank depicting a standing "Begging Bear," manufactured by the A.C. Williams Company of Ravenna, Ohio, circa 1910s–1920s. Measuring 5.5 inches tall and weighing a substantial 15.7 oz, this classic figurative bank features finely molded fur texturing, paws held up in a begging posture, upright ears, and a coin slot positioned along the rear vertical spine seam.

Finish & Patina The bank retains a substantial amount of its original factory gilt/gold wash bronze finish over the dark cast iron surface, displaying soft wear and minor surface oxidation around the base rim and seam edges consistent with age and gentle handling over the last century. It has not been cleaned, polished, or repainted, preserving its highly desirable original antique surface patina.

Construction & Hardware Constructed in two hollow vertical halves, the bank is secured by its original central flat-head steel machine screw threaded into the internal cast boss from the right flank. The base features a scalloped inter-locking bottom edge closure designed to prevent coin removal.

• Origin: Ravenna, Ohio, USA

• Manufacturer: A.C. Williams Company

• Circa: 1910–1925

• Materials: Cast Iron, Original Gilt Wash, Steel Hardware

• Dimensions: 5.5" H × 2.25" W × 2.0" D

• Weight: 15.7 oz (445 g)

Condition Report

• Structural Integrity: Complete and intact with no cracks, fractures, repairs, or missing metal noted.

• Surface Condition: Excellent original condition displaying genuine age-appropriate wear to the factory gold wash. Light surface oxidation is visible along the crevices and lower base, confirming authentic aging.

• Hardware & Fit: Original flat-head screw is present and tightens securely. Seams align closely and flush along the perimeter.

Authenticity Assessment

This piece exhibits all classic hallmarks of an authentic early 20th-century A.C. Williams casting:

1. Seam Alignment & Interior: Hand-fitted vertical casting seams show smooth, tight alignment

2. Surface Texture & Mold Detail: The fur relief is sharp yet hand-finished

3. Hardware: Secured by an authentic single flat-head steel screw

4. Base Construction: Features the characteristic scalloped/toothed interlocking bottom seam unique to A.C. Williams animal still banks of this era.

Reference

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

• Authors: Andy Moore and Susan Moore

• Reference: Listed under the Animal Banks section as "Begging Bear" (A.C. Williams, c. 1910s).

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