Hand-carved and hand-painted, this charming 19th century British Folk Art mechanical bank has all of the elements that constitute fine, self taught, and creative artistic skills. The design is excellent, and operation of the bank is effective and enticing.
Patriotism is prevalent as indicated by the attention to detail of the Union Jack flag of the United Kingdom, which was designed in 1801. To the left of the house at the bottom are the words "Place a Penny" and to the right at the bottom are the words "On My Head."

To operate: place a coin atop the girl's head. The girl will lean backwards, depositing the coin into the building and then returns to her original position. Mechanism is based on weight and balance (works best with an old, large English penny, but a quarter will work just fine).
Coins are removed by rotating the hook away from the hasp and pivoting the trap upwards (see image).

The condition of the bank is excellent and in all original paint with a wonderful patina. There are no restorations. The figure of the girl is very nicely carved.
This colorful and attractive bank would make a nice addition to collectors at all levels; from the discerning Folk Art collector to the discriminating bank collector.

The dimensions:
9 3/4" high x 9 1/4" long x 6 1/8" wide.