{"product_id":"antique-young-america-cast-iron-safe-still-bank-penny-farthing-bicycle-j-e-stevens-c-1880s","title":"Antique Young America Cast Iron Safe Still Bank Penny Farthing Bicycle J. \u0026 E. Stevens c. 1880s","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis is an authentic, highly collectible Late Victorian cast iron safe still bank, universally recognized by collecto\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ers as the \"Young America\" safe \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ebank. Produced in the United States during the 1880s, this heavy, six-sided cast iron bank features deeply molded, whimsical bas-relief pictorial panels on every vertical surface, celebrating late 19th-century American childhood and outdoor leisure.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe bank is built around an operable hinged front door that secures with a traditional key lock mechanism (key not included). The individual scenes capture distinct historical snapshots of the era:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFront Door Panel:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Features the raised-relief title \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"YOUNG AMERICA\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e emblazoned across the top header. The main scene depicts a young boy proudly riding a high-wheel \"Penny Farthing\" bicycle down a path next to a picket fence and a stylized leafing tree, blowing a horn while a bird flies overhead.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRight Side Panel:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Shows a young boy wearing a cap, running along a fence line while expertly rolling a large play hoop (hoop rolling), a classic street game of the Victorian period. A detailed birdhouse or martin box on a tall post stands prominently to the left.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLeft Side Panel:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Depicts a peaceful river or pond scene featuring a young boy sitting in a small rowboat, actively pulling a hooked fish out of the water using a cane pole. A charming Victorian schoolhouse or church with a cross steeple and weather vane rises in the background behind a stone retaining wall.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBack Panel:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Illustrates a boy sitting atop a brick or stone wall, peering downward or talking with a seated young girl wearing a classic Victorian bustling dress, while a third standing figure in a wide-brimmed hat holds a broom or staff nearby.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTop Panel:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Features an intricate, ornate geometric scrollwork and foliate pattern surrounding a centralized four-petal floral medallion. A crisp, cast-in coin slot sits near the front edge to receive pennies or nickels.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBottom Base:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Solid flat cast iron base panel resting on four integrated bracket style feet. It reveals the interior assembly structure secured via two authentic, slot-head machine screws.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe entire body is framed by geometric borders composed of alternating diamond and oval relief details. This bank stands approximately 4.5\" tall, 3\" wide, and 3\" deep, and possesses a substantial, dense weight of 1 lb 5.2 oz. It is a premier example of American decorative social history and late-19th-century cast iron craftsmanship.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-f3a72de6-7fff-08d2-6c63-72b954d159e7\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: large;\"\u003eOrigin \u0026amp; Age\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eManufacturer:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e J. \u0026amp; E. Stevens Company (alternatively attributed to contemporary Victorian safe bank makers like Kenton or John Harper, though Stevens remains the primary industry reference for this specific casting series).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGeographic Origin:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Cromwell, Connecticut, USA.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProduction Period:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Circa 1880 – 1890 (Late Victorian Era).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMaterial \u0026amp; Specifications\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMaterial:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Heavy sand-cast iron.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Approximately 4.5\" (H) x 3\" (W) x 3\" (D).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWeight:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 1 lb 5.2 oz (21.2 oz total).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFasteners:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Two original bottom-entry, flush-set slot-head iron machine screws.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCondition Report\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis bank is in excellent, untouched antique condition, showing beautiful age-appropriate wear that strictly preserves its historic integrity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSurface \u0026amp; Patina:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e The bank retains a highly desirable original dark chocolate brown iron patina with substantial remnants of its factory-applied gold gilt highlights nestled in the recessed borders and architectural reliefs. The surface has \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003enot\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e been cleaned, chemically stripped, or repainted, ensuring the original untouched skin remains completely intact for discerning collectors.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStructural Integrity:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e The cast iron is entirely sound with no cracks, structural breaks, missing chips, or weld repairs. The corner seams align tightly as originally manufactured.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMechanical Function:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e The door hinges are completely intact and swing smoothly without binding. The locking mechanism is present, though a key is not included. The slot-head assembly screws on the underside are unbroken and firmly set.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthenticity Assessment\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCasting Texture \u0026amp; Quality:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e The panels display an incredibly crisp, distinct, and finely detailed relief definition typical of original 1880s high-grade American foundry sand molds. Modern recasts typically suffer from \"mold shrinkage\" and feature blurry, washed-out details, which are completely absent here.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSurface Pitting \u0026amp; Seams:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e The iron surface shows a tight, smooth, natural grain structure with zero jagged \"flash lines,\" crude grinding wheel marks, or modern granular pitting. The interlocking corner tabs meet flush and true.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFasteners \u0026amp; Patina:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e The two bottom assembly screws are period-correct, irregular slot-head iron screws that display oxidation matching the surrounding base plate. Furthermore, the deep oxidation across the entire exterior is a genuine, slow-growing dark brown iron patina layered with genuine oxidized gold leaf highlights, a structural surface character that cannot be artificially faked with modern chemical washes or spray-on finishes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReference\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBook Title:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Penny Bank Book: Collecting Still Banks\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Andy Moore \u0026amp; Susan Moore\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePage\/Reference:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Documented and illustrated under the \"Safe Banks - Pictorial\" classifications.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlternative Reference:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Also cataloged extensively in \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Official Price Guide to Antique coin Banks\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e by Dan Morphy.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Comic Sans MS; font-size: large;\"\u003eShipping calculated by eBay\/USPS\/UPS based on your ZIP code.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Comic Sans MS; font-size: large;\"\u003eItem Description and Condition Disclaimer\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Comic Sans MS; font-size: large;\"\u003eWe 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. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAll 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. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Comic Sans MS; font-size: large;\"\u003eCustomer Service Commitment\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Comic Sans MS; font-size: large;\"\u003eWe truly value our customers and prioritize building lasting relationships through exceptional service. If you'd like additional photos or have questions about an item, we're more than happy to provide them promptly upon request. In the event of any concerns after purchase, please reach out to us as soon as possible--certainly before submitting feedback--so we can work together to resolve the matter swiftly and fairly. Our utmost focus is on customer satisfaction, and we'll do everything in our power to ensure every transaction is smooth, transparent, and positive for you.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Light and Legacy","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44200927559723,"sku":"992","price":250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0614\/5379\/5371\/files\/20260528_215937.jpg?v=1781499633","url":"https:\/\/thelightandlegacy.com\/products\/antique-young-america-cast-iron-safe-still-bank-penny-farthing-bicycle-j-e-stevens-c-1880s","provider":"Light and Legacy","version":"1.0","type":"link"}