This is an authentic, original antique cast iron "Prancing Horse on Base" still penny bank, manufactured in the United States circa 1910–1920. This iconic early 20th-century design features a beautifully sculpted rearing or prancing horse seamlessly integrated onto a molded, textured oval base plate. This classic casting was historically produced by premier American foundries of the era, including Arcade Manufacturing Co., A.C. Williams, and Hubley.

The bank is currently disassembled into its two factory-cast halves. The interior walls showcase textbook historical indicators: authentic surface oxidation, original factory casting seam irregularities, and an unpainted, raw iron core texture showing honest age. The exterior retains an excellent amount of its original factory gold paint finish with a highly desirable, dry historic patina. The coin slot is located cleanly along the upper back/neck of the horse.

Item Specifics

• Material: Cast Iron

• Manufacturer: Arcade / A.C. Williams / Hubley Era

• Origin: USA (Freeport, IL / Ravenna, OH)

• Age: Circa 1910–1920 (Early 20th Century)

• Approximate Dimensions: 5" x 5"

• Weight: 12.4 oz (351 grams)

Condition Report

• Overall Condition: Very Good Antique Condition.

• Surface Finish: Retains a high percentage of its original factory gold paint with honest wear, high-point paint loss, and micro-flaking consistent with age.

• Patina: Features a completely dry, untouched historical patina. It has not been cleaned, oiled, polished, or chemically altered.

• Structural Integrity: No cracks, chips, breaks, or welds to the structural cast iron body noticed. The internal threaded post is stable but shows a historic split/chip on the outer edge of the column collar, as detailed in the close-up image. This minor casting chip does not affect the threads, which remain deep, intact, and capable of holding an assembly screw securely.

• Hardware Note: The original assembly screw is missing. The bank is being sold entirely unresolved/without a replacement screw to preserve its untouched state for the buyer.

Note on the Missing Screw: Leaving this bank without a replacement screw is intentional. Inserting a modern, bright zinc hardware-store screw does not add value to an antique cast iron piece. Meticulous collectors and dealers heavily prefer to acquire them in their untouched state so they can source a period-correct, flat-head iron screw from a donor bank of the exact same era.

Reference

This specific equine casting is a well-documented form among early American still banks:

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

• Authors: Andy Moore & Susan Moore

• Publishing Information: Schiffer Publishing

• Reference Context: Listed on page 86, classified as Bank No. 517 ("Prancing Horse"), noting manufacturing periods between 1910 and 1932 by companies including Arcade and A.C. Williams.

A close examination of the provided images appears to confirm this piece is an authentic, period casting from the early 1900s. The perimeter profile displays tight, precise tolerances when aligned. The photos exhibit a classic coarse, non-machine-standard internal threading inside the casting pillar. The wear on the original gold finish is organically concentrated on the high-relief zones (hips, mane, and base rim), proving honest handling over the last century.

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Item Description and Condition Disclaimer

We take great care in researching, identifying, and describing each antique item to the best of our ability, drawing on available resources and hands-on examination. However, as dedicated enthusiasts rather than professional appraisers or certified experts, we cannot offer guarantees on authenticity, age, origin, or precise valuation. We strongly recommend that buyers perform their own due diligence, including consulting reference materials or experts, and thoroughly examine the accompanying photographs. These images are an essential component of our listing and depict the item's actual condition, including any visible flaws, wear, or imperfections consistent with its antique nature. It is the buyer's responsibility to inspect each lot and form their own assessment on condition, description and authenticity before purchasing. All items have signs of wear commensurate with age and usage. The lack of statement regarding condition does not imply that the item is in perfect condition or free from any and all defects. If you have any questions regarding the condition of the items, please ask and we will be more than happy to answer and/or provide additional photos as requested.

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