This is an exceptional, investment-grade example of the 1920s cast iron "Radio Bank" (Small Version) manufactured by Kenton Hardware Co. of Kenton, Ohio. Designed during the golden age of early radio broadcasting, this mechanical safe bank meticulously mimics a 3-dial TRF (Tuned Radio Frequency) tabletop radio receiver from the era.

The bank features a beautifully cast housing finished in its original, vibrant Nile green/light blue enamel paint, accented by highlighted gold corner columns. The heavy, nickel-plated cast iron front door proudly displays three rotating functional dials, pointer increments, and the embossed text "RADIO BANK". What elevates this piece to a true museum-grade rarity is that it retains its incredibly fragile, original cardboard "KENTONTOYS" operating instruction tag, which details the specific dial combination required to unlock the safe door.

The underside features a fully perforated grid pattern designed to allow the collector to see the savings inside, with the crisp casting mark "KENTON TOYS KENTON OHIO" running along the lower rear base edge. This specific piece boasts incredible provenance, bearing an inventory label from the renowned Larry T. Egelhoff Safe Bank Collection (#1595) and passing through the historic Peirce Collection. It remains in an uncleaned, completely original state, maximizing its historical integrity.

Authenticity Assessment

• Casting & Material Quality: The cast iron displays the characteristic tight grain, smooth back-molding, and precise tolerances expected of Kenton Hardware's 1920s production. There are no modern pitting signs, oversized sand-gaps, or crude flash lines common to contemporary reproductions.

• Hardware & Construction: As visible in photos, the rear of the safe door utilizes authentic, original iron cotter-pin retaining clips to hold the three individual nickel dials to their stamped back-braces. The main body assembly utilizes a single, authentic slotted steel machine screw deeply recessed into the top panel.

• Surface Patina & Paint: The green/blue enamel paint exhibits natural, micro-checked aging, honest high-point wear, and minor oxidation tracking along the base and corners that cannot be replicated artificially.

• Inscriptions: The maker's mark cast into the base plate is flawlessly aligned, sharp, and correct in font size and spacing.

Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: Kenton Hardware Co. (Kenton, Ohio)

• Era/Age: Circa 1925–1930 (1920s)

• Material: Cast Iron (Housing & Door), Stamped Nickel Steel (Dials/Lock Mechanism), Paper/String (Tag)

• Dimensions: 3" H x 4 1/2" W x 2 3/4" D

• Weight: 1 lb, 3.6 oz (verified in file 20260615_022356.jpg)

• Provenance: The Larry T. Egelhoff Safe Bank Collection (Tag #1595), The Peirce Collection

Reference

This exact model is cataloged and fully documented in the industry-standard authority text for still bank collectors:

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

• Author: Andy Moore

• Page Reference: Page 116 (Item Reference #604, listed as "Radio Bank, 3 Dials")

Condition Report

• Overall Condition: Excellent, completely original "as-found" condition.

• Paint/Surface: Retains approximately 85-90% of its original factory paint. Expect minor, honest flaking and paint loss along the edges of the top lid, feet, and column moldings. The gold highlights on the front pilasters remain crisp and clear.

• Mechanical Functionality: The three-dial mechanism rotates freely and smoothly. The original door hinge operates perfectly without any sag or structural hairline cracks.

• Original Tag: The original cardboard "KENTONTOYS" tag is in extraordinary condition with clear, unfaded red lettering. It shows gentle handling creases consistent with age but remains fully intact on its original string loop.

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Item Description and Condition Disclaimer

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