This has been identified as an authentic, original cast iron still bank depicting President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, manufactured by the renowned Kenton Hardware Company (Kenton Toys) of Kenton, Ohio. Released circa 1935, this bust was produced to commemorate Roosevelt’s "New Deal" era. The bank features a detailed figural bust of FDR in a suit and tie, with a coin slot located discreetly on the upper back.

The bank retains its original bronze/gold wash finish with a superb "dry" historical patina. It is constructed in two halves, held together by a single internal screw. The base features a rectangular metal trap; please note, as is common with these surviving specimens, the original key is not included. The casting is crisp, showing the characteristic pebbled texture on the reverse of the shoulders typical of Kenton’s mid-30s production.

• Origin: Kenton, Ohio, USA

• Manufacturer: Kenton Hardware Company (Kenton Toys)

• Age: Circa 1935

• Material: Cast Iron

• Dimensions: Approximately 5" Height x 4" Width

• Condition: Excellent antique condition. No cracks, chips, or repairs to the cast iron. Significant portion of the original bronze-toned finish remains. Expected oxidation and wear consistent with age. Original trap is present, but no key.

Authenticity Assessment

This specimen exhibits the primary markers of an original Kenton production. The casting seams are tight but visible, consistent with 1930s mold technology rather than the sloppy, oversized seams found on modern reproductions. The texturing on the back of the bust shows the distinct "orange peel" or pebbled effect unique to Kenton’s foundry work of this period. Most importantly, the trap mechanism and the recessed lettering of "F.D. ROOSEVELT" on the front plinth match known examples cited in scholarly references. The natural wear to the high points of the face and lapels reveals a dark, oxidized iron underneath, confirming it is not a cold-painted contemporary "repro."

Reference

Book Title: The Penny Bank Book: Collecting Still Banks

Author: Andy Moore & Susan Moore

Page Number: Page 70 (Ref #398)

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