Introduction to Antique Piggy Banks
The Enduring Charm of Antique Piggy Banks
Collecting antique and vintage piggy banks has grown significantly in popularity, with enthusiasts seeking everything from ornate cast iron mechanical banks to charming ceramic designs. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just discovered an old bank in your attic, understanding the factors that influence value can help you determine if your piggy bank is worth just pocket change or serious money.
This comprehensive guide explores the fascinating world of antique piggy banks, their historical significance, various styles, and most importantly, what makes them valuable in today’s market. We’ll examine price ranges for different types, identify the most sought-after examples, and provide expert tips for collectors.
History of Piggy Banks
Origin and Evolution of Piggy Banks
Historical Timeline of Piggy Banks
- 12th Century
First Pig-Shaped Banks
The earliest known pig-shaped money containers originated in Java. The Javanese term "cèlèngan" meant both "likeness of a wild boar" and "savings." - Middle Ages
European Adaptation
Clay pots called "pygg jars" were used throughout Europe to store coins. The name referred to the orange clay (pygg) used, not the pig shape. - 18th Century
Pig-Shaped Design Emerges
When potters received requests for "pygg banks," they created pig-shaped vessels, establishing the connection between pigs and money storage. - Late 1800s
Mechanical Banks Boom
The late 19th century saw a proliferation of cast iron mechanical banks in America, featuring animated actions when coins were inserted. - 20th Century
Collectible Era
Mass production of ceramic, plastic, and metal piggy banks created countless designs that are now sought by collectors worldwide.
The association between pigs and money storage began largely by linguistic accident. In medieval England, people stored their coins in simple clay pots made from an orange clay called “pygg.” When customers later asked potters to make “pygg banks,” artisans created pig-shaped vessels, solidifying the connection between pigs and savings that continues today.
By the late 19th century, especially in America, cast iron mechanical banks flourished as both toys and teaching tools, encouraging children to save while being entertained by their coin-activated mechanisms.
Types of Collectible Piggy Banks
Major Categories of Antique Piggy Banks
Cast Iron Mechanical Banks
The most prized category among serious collectors, mechanical banks feature moving parts that activate when a coin is inserted. J. & E. Stevens Company and the Shepard Hardware Company produced many of the most valuable examples between 1870-1910.
Popular designs include:
- “Tammany” politician figures
- Uncle Sam banks
- William Tell banks
- Various animal designs with moving features
These mechanical banks often tell a story or depict historical events, making them not just toys but also windows into American culture and history.
Still Cast Iron Banks
Simpler than their mechanical counterparts but equally collectible, still banks (without moving parts) come in countless designs:
- Traditional pig shapes
- Buildings and structures
- Character figures
- Animals and human figures
These banks typically feature a coin slot and removable plug for retrieving savings.
Ceramic and Pottery Banks
Ceramic banks became extremely popular in the mid-20th century and include:
- Hand-painted figurines
- Traditional pig shapes in various glazes
- Character banks from popular culture
- Souvenir banks from various locations
Manufacturers like McCoy, Shawnee Pottery, and Hull produced many desirable ceramic banks now highly sought by collectors.
Glass and Brass Banks
Less common but highly decorative:
- Glass banks from companies like Corningware
- Brass and bronze pig-shaped banks
- Art glass examples with vibrant colors
Specialty and Novelty Banks
This diverse category includes:
- Advertising banks promoting products or businesses
- Political campaign banks
- Souvenir banks from world’s fairs and exhibitions
- Holiday-themed banks
Value Factors for Antique Piggy Banks
What Makes a Piggy Bank Valuable?
Key Value Determinants
Age and Rarity
The oldest piggy banks, particularly those from the 19th century, typically command higher prices. Limited production runs or banks from manufacturers who operated briefly can significantly increase value.
Condition
Condition critically impacts value, with collectors willing to pay premiums for examples with:
- Original paint intact
- No chips, cracks, or repairs
- Working mechanisms (for mechanical banks)
- Original stopper or plug present
Even minor restoration work can dramatically reduce value for serious collectors who prize originality.
Historical Significance
Banks depicting important historical events, political figures, or cultural moments often have added value beyond their decorative appeal.
Maker and Provenance
Value Assessment Checklist
Factors that can increase your piggy bank's worth
- Original paint in excellent condition
- Complete working mechanism (for mechanical banks)
- Authentic maker's mark or signature present
- Rare or limited production design
- Original box or packaging included
- Documented provenance or history
- No repairs, cracks or restoration
- Unusual color variant or design feature
Certain manufacturers are particularly respected:
- J. & E. Stevens Company (mechanical banks)
- Shepard Hardware Company
- Enterprise Manufacturing
- Ceramic makers like McCoy, Hull, and Roseville
- European makers like Gebruder Bing
A documented history of ownership can add value, especially for rare or important examples.
Completeness and Accessories
Original boxes, papers, and components significantly increase value. For mechanical banks, having all original parts in working condition can double or triple the value compared to incomplete examples.
Price Ranges for Antique Piggy Banks
Current Market Values for Antique Piggy Banks
Antique Piggy Bank Value Guide (2023)
Average market prices based on recent sales data
</tbody>
</table>
Record-Breaking Sales
While most piggy banks sell in the ranges listed above, exceptional pieces can achieve remarkable prices at auction:
- A rare “Freedman’s Bank” mechanical cast iron bank sold for $98,500 at a Morphy Auctions sale
- The J. & E. Stevens “Jonah and the Whale” mechanical bank has sold for over $60,000
- Early and rare mechanical banks in pristine condition with original paint regularly exceed $10,000 at specialized auctions
Market Trends
The market for antique piggy banks has shown steady growth, particularly for high-quality cast iron mechanical examples. According to auction data, prices for top-tier mechanical banks have appreciated approximately 5-10% annually over the past decade.
Meanwhile, vintage ceramic banks from the mid-20th century have seen rising interest from casual collectors looking for affordable, decorative pieces that evoke nostalgia.
Most Valuable Antique Piggy Banks
8 Highly Valuable Piggy Banks Worth Serious Money
Notable Antique Piggy Bank Auction Results
Recent high-value sales from major auction houses
| Category | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 19th Century Cast Iron Mechanical Banks | $200 - $2,500+ | Exceptional examples can exceed $10,000 |
| Early 20th Century Cast Iron Still Banks | $75 - $300 | Higher for rare designs or excellent paint |
| Mid-Century Ceramic Banks (McCoy, Shawnee) | $35 - $150 | Premium for rare colors and perfect condition |
| Vintage Brass Piggy Banks | $50 - $250 | Higher for ornate designs and large examples |
| Vintage Glass Banks (Corningware) | $50 - $150+ | Popular patterns like Cornflower Blue bring more |
| Advertising and Promotional Banks | $25 - $100 | Varies widely based on brand popularity |
| Novelty and Character Banks | $20 - $150 | Higher for recognizable characters or franchises |
</tbody>
</table>
1. “Freedman’s Bank”
This exceedingly rare cast iron mechanical bank was manufactured circa 1880 by J. & E. Stevens. It depicts an African American figure depositing a coin and features historical significance related to post-Civil War banking initiatives.
2. “Jonah and the Whale” Mechanical Bank
Another J. & E. Stevens masterpiece, this bank shows Jonah being swallowed by a whale when a coin is deposited. Its complex mechanism and Biblical theme make it highly sought after.
3. Corningware Piggy Banks
A more accessible but increasingly valuable category, Corningware glass piggy banks from the 1950s-60s now regularly sell for $150 or more, especially in coveted patterns like Cornflower Blue.
4. “Girl Skipping Rope” Mechanical Bank
Created by J. & E. Stevens around 1890, this bank features a girl who appears to skip rope when a coin is deposited. Its intricate mechanism and charming design make it one of the most sought-after mechanical banks.
5. Marbleized Stoneware Pig Banks
Predating cast iron examples, these 19th-century handcrafted pottery banks feature distinctive marbled glaze patterns. Authentic examples in good condition can sell for thousands.
6. Brass Figural Pig Banks
Large, heavy brass piggy banks from the early 20th century, particularly those with intricate details or unusual features, can sell for $200-500 or more depending on size and condition.
7. Uncle Sam Mechanical Banks
These patriotic banks by various manufacturers show Uncle Sam depositing coins into a carpet bag or other container. Good examples with working mechanisms and original paint regularly sell for $1,000-5,000.
8. “Tammany” Political Banks
Depicting the corrupt politician “Boss” Tweed, these satirical banks made by Shepard Hardware Company around 1873 show the figure putting coins in his pocket. They typically sell for $1,500-3,000 in good condition.
How to Identify Valuable Piggy Banks
Authentication and Identification Guide
Examining Materials and Construction
Cast Iron Banks:
- Authentic antique cast iron has a distinctive weight and feel
- Seams should show hand-filing marks rather than machine precision
- Original paint will show appropriate crazing and age-consistent wear
- Reproductions often have smoother casting and unnaturally bright paint
Ceramic Banks:
- Check for appropriate maker’s marks on the bottom
- Examine glazes for period-appropriate colors and techniques
- Weight and porosity of the ceramic material should match the era
Spotting Reproductions
Modern reproductions of valuable mechanical banks are common. Warning signs include:
- Perfect, bright paint without appropriate aging
- Screws with modern Phillips heads rather than flat slots
- Overly precise casting without hand-finished details
- Lightweight metal or hollow construction
- “Aged” appearances that look artificial or inconsistent
Authentication Resources
For valuable or questionable pieces, consider:
- Professional appraisal services
- Reference books with detailed photographs of authentic examples
- Collector associations like the Mechanical Bank Collectors of America
- Authentication services at major auction houses
Collecting Tips for Beginners
Getting Started with Piggy Bank Collecting
Finding Affordable Entry Points
- Mid-20th century ceramic banks remain relatively affordable at $25-100
- Modern limited editions with potential future value
- Advertising banks from well-known brands
- Holiday-themed vintage banks
- Damaged mechanical banks that can be restored (but note that restoration decreases value for high-end collectors)
Where to Find Antique Piggy Banks
- Estate sales and auctions
- Antique stores and malls
- Online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy
- Specialized antique toy dealers
- Collector shows and conventions
- Online auction houses like 1stDibs
Building a Focused Collection
Rather than collecting randomly, consider specializing in:
- Banks from a specific manufacturer
- A particular time period or style
- Thematic collections (animals, buildings, characters)
- Banks made from a specific material
This focused approach can make your collection more coherent and potentially more valuable.
Caring for Your Collection
Proper maintenance helps preserve value:
- Display away from direct sunlight to prevent fading
- Handle with clean hands to avoid transferring oils
- Clean gently with appropriate materials (different for ceramic vs. metal)
- For mechanical banks, operate mechanisms occasionally but gently
- Document your collection with photographs and provenance information
FAQ About Antique Piggy Banks
Common Questions About Antique Piggy Banks
What is the most expensive piggy bank in the world?
The most expensive piggy bank ever created is the "Minty" 18-carat gold piggy bank produced by Bristol-based silversmiths Phillip Kydd and his son James for the Royal Mint, valued at £100,000 (approximately $130,000 USD).
For antique piggy banks, the record auction price is around $98,500 for a rare "Freedman’s Bank" mechanical cast iron bank sold at Morphy Auctions. Other extremely rare mechanical banks from the late 19th century have sold for $60,000-$75,000 at specialized auctions.
What is the oldest type of piggy bank?
The earliest known pig-shaped money containers date to the 12th century on the island of Java. These early banks were called "cèlèngan," a term that meant both "likeness of a wild boar" and "savings."
In Western tradition, the connection between pigs and money storage began with clay pots called "pygg jars" used throughout medieval Europe. The word "pygg" referred to the orange clay used, not the animal. Eventually, when potters received requests for "pygg banks," they began creating pig-shaped vessels, establishing the familiar pig design that persists today.
How can I tell if my old piggy bank is valuable?
To determine if your old piggy bank might be valuable, check for these indicators:
- Age - Banks from the 19th or early 20th century are typically more valuable
- Material - Cast iron mechanical banks command the highest prices
- Maker’s marks - Look for manufacturer stamps or signatures on the bottom
- Condition - Original paint and working mechanisms significantly impact value
- Rarity - Unusual designs or limited production models are worth more
- Provenance - Documentation of history or original packaging increases value
For a precise valuation, consult with an antique toy specialist or use online resources like WorthPoint for comparable sales data.
Should I clean my antique piggy bank?
Generally, you should avoid cleaning antique piggy banks, as improper cleaning can significantly reduce their value. The patina and aged appearance are often desirable to collectors and constitute part of the item's authenticity.If cleaning is absolutely necessary:
- For cast iron banks: Gently dust with a soft brush; never use water or chemical cleaners
- For ceramic banks: Use only a soft, dry cloth; avoid wet cleaning unless advised by an expert
- For brass banks: Consult a professional before applying any polish or cleaner
Remember that original paint condition is crucial to value, and even minor cleaning can damage fragile old finishes. When in doubt, consult with an antique toy specialist before attempting any cleaning.
Are modern piggy banks worth collecting?
While modern piggy banks generally don't have the investment value of antique examples, there are several categories that show collecting potential:
- Limited edition designs from recognized artists or designers
- Banks from prestigious brands like Tiffany & Co. or Waterford Crystal
- Promotional banks from iconic brands with strong collector bases
- Unusual or innovative designs that may become tomorrow’s collectibles
- Banks tied to significant cultural moments or events
The best approach is to collect what you genuinely enjoy. If you appreciate a modern bank’s design or significance, its personal value transcends any potential financial return. Some contemporary collectors focus on specific themes or characters rather than age or investment potential.
External Resources for Collectors
Valuable Resources for Piggy Bank Collectors
Mechanical Bank Collectors of America
Membership organization for serious collectors of mechanical banks, offering authentication services, publications, and annual conventions.
WorthPoint Piggy Bank Value Guide
Expert analysis of piggy bank values with examples of both common and rare specimens from different eras.
eBay Vintage Piggy Bank Collection
Extensive marketplace with thousands of vintage and antique piggy banks available for purchase, with completed sales history to gauge values.
1stDibs Antique Piggy Bank Gallery
Curated selection of premium antique and vintage piggy banks from verified dealers worldwide.
LoveToKnow Antique Piggy Banks Guide
Comprehensive guide to antique piggy bank styles, values, and collecting information.
Collectors Weekly Piggy Bank Price Guide
Regularly updated price guides and collecting information for various styles of antique and vintage piggy banks.
JustAnswer Appraisal Service
Professional appraisal service where experts can evaluate your piggy bank based on photographs and detailed information.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Piggy Banks
Why Piggy Banks Continue to Capture Collectors' Hearts
Antique and vintage piggy banks offer an accessible entry point to collecting with pieces available at virtually every price point. From humble ceramic pigs worth $25 to elaborate mechanical masterpieces valued at tens of thousands, there’s something for every budget and interest.
The charm of these money containers goes beyond their financial worth. They represent the history of saving and thrift, childhood memories, and the evolution of both manufacturing techniques and artistic styles across different eras.
For today’s collectors, the hunt for rare examples continues, while the market shows steady appreciation for the finest pieces. Whether you’re drawn to the whimsical designs, the mechanical ingenuity, or the historical significance, collecting piggy banks offers both pleasure and potential investment value.
If you’ve discovered an old piggy bank in your possession, take time to research its origins and characteristics before making decisions about cleaning, restoration, or sale. What might look like a simple childhood memento could potentially be a valuable collector’s item worth preserving for future generations.
Get a Professional Appraisal
Unsure about your item’s value? Our certified experts provide fast, written appraisals you can trust.
- Expert report with photos and comps
- Fast turnaround
- Fixed, upfront pricing
No obligation. Secure upload.
| Item | Price | Date | Auction House |
|---|---|---|---|
| "Freedman's Bank" Cast Iron Mechanical | $98,500 | January 2023 | Morphy Auctions |
| "Jonah and the Whale" J. & E. Stevens | $62,500 | October 2022 | Bertoia Auctions |
| "Girl Skipping Rope" Mechanical Bank | $45,000 | March 2023 | RSL Auction Co. |
| "Coasting Bank" by J. & E. Stevens | $37,500 | November 2022 | Bertoia Auctions |
| Rare Marbleized Stoneware Pig Bank (19th c.) | $12,400 | February 2023 | Christie's |