Original “Billiken” cast iron still bank patented in 1908 by Florence Pretz (patent number on the back in raised letters “NO39BO3”. It was manufactured by the A.C. Williams Company from 1909 to 1912 as a savings bank for children to save their pennies. The company was located in Ravenna, Ohio, noted for making iron goods, banks and toys, and having been established in 1876.
The figure “Billiken” (in raised letters on the front) was considered to be “Good Luck” (stamped in raised letters on the lower back side). Resembling a Buddha, the Billiken implies the phrase “things as they ought to be”.
The bank is referenced as #74 page 67 in Andy Moore’s book “The Penny Bank Book” written in 1984.
This example is not a reproduction and guaranteed to be authentic; in original paint with no touch-up and has not been restored.
It measures 4 1/4″ tall x 2 1/2″ deep x 2 1/2″ wide
Note: After 40 plus years of dealing and collecting toys, I am justly qualified to guarantee and present the authenticity of antique and vintage toys and banks; important considering the fakes and reproductions in the marketplace