ANTIQUE TOY WORLD
Vol. 8, No. 8, September 1978
"Mechanical Bank News Report"
     World Record Price $18,500. Jonah Emerges From Whale.
Two World Record prices received for Mechanical Banks within two months apart. The first rare bank showed up at Sotheby's Belgravia on May 26, Lot No. 197, Snake and Frog tin mechanical bank. The frog opening his mouth to receive coin from snake when lever at one side is depressed. Lot No. 197 also listed the saluting Sailor tin mechanical bank (see photo) but we believe the Snake and Frog bank was sold by itself. The extremely rare Snake and Frog tin mechanical bank set a world record price for a bank sold at auction of 4100.00 English pounds which is around $8,200 not counting extra costs involved. Saluting Sailor tin mechanical bank. 270.00 pounds.
     It was destined to happen sooner or later, World Records are made to be broken. On July 9, at an auction held by Roan Inc. in Cogan Station, Pa., the very rare Jonah and Whale (Jonah Emerges) mechanical bank set a new World Record Price of $18,500. Frank Whitson of Baltimore, Md. was the successful bidder.
     The Jonah and Whale turned up in a box of miscellaneous items that had been boxed up and set aside without knowledge of or regard for its extreme rarity and potential value.
     After hearing of the appearance of this unusual bank, and realizing its true identity and probable value, the firm of Roan Inc. sought out and acquired Jonah and Whale.
     There is another bank called Jonah and The Whale which is very common (both banks are pictured). So you new bank collectors don't get excited. (Jonah and the Whale mechanical bank) Richard W. Withington, Inc. will hold a bank and toy auction on Saturday, Oct. 21. (see ad)