Up for sale is a wonderful piece of 1920s–1930s banking americana: an original, vintage mechanical telescoping pocket savings bank manufactured by the renowned Chicago Thrift Co. of Chicago, Illinois.

This pocket-sized promotional bank features its vibrant, original blue and gold lithographed paper or celluloid top emblem reading: "THE PEOPLES SAVINGS BANK - SEE US FOR LOANS". The bottom of the piece is cleanly stamped into the metal with "CHICAGO THRIFT CO. CHICAGO PAT. APPLIED FOR" surrounding the central keyhole mechanism.

Designed as a portable "vest pocket" thrift premium given out to bank depositors, this ingenious mechanical device features a ribbed metal cylindrical sleeve that telescopes open to accommodate more coins as savings grow. It measures a compact 1.5 inches when closed and extends smoothly up to 2.25 inches. A highly collectible crossover item appealing to collectors of still/mechanical banks, coin-op novelties, and local banking ephemera.

Product Specifications

• Manufacturer: Chicago Thrift Co.

• Origin: Chicago, Illinois, USA

• Age: Circa 1925–1935

• Material: Nickel-plated brass/metal alloy, paper/celluloid insert

• Dimensions: 1.5" Height (Closed) to 2.25" Height (Extended)

• Condition: Excellent vintage condition. The metal body retains a clean surface with minor age-appropriate oxidation and surface wear. The top lithographed advertising insert is exceptionally crisp with vibrant blue and gold coloration and minimal fading. The telescoping action moves smoothly. No key is included.

Authenticity Assessment

This item is identified as an authentic period casting and assembly manufactured by the Chicago Thrift Co. during the interwar era. Key authenticity markers include the highly precise, clean machine-stamping on the base plate displaying the proper early "Pat. Applied For" serif typeface variant typical of their mid-1920s production runs. Furthermore, the authentic aged surface patina of the industrial nickel-plated alloy barrel shows microscopic, non-uniform surface pocketing and honest handling wear that cannot be artificially replicated. The internal friction-ring mechanism demonstrates proper tolerances matching the original manufacturing specs.

Reference

For a similar corporate profile and historical context regarding these exact promotional savings premiums distributed to financial institutions by this maker, please reference:

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

• Author: Andy Moore

• Page Number: Page 112 (See listings under promotional metal/pocket savings banks)

Authenticity Assessment

The photos confirm complete historic authenticity based on widely accepted industry markers. The B. & R. bank features crisp, industrial stamping with historically accurate alignment deviations typical of late-19th-century stamping dies. The knurled borders on the caps display genuine micro-wear patterns rather than the uniform sharpness of modern cast replicas. The natural zinc and nickel-plating degradation across the bodies shows genuine atmospheric oxidation that cannot be easily replicated synthetically.

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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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