Always Did 'Spise a Mule 1897 Mechanical Bank
(Item: 3661J)

1897 J.E. Stevens "Always Did "Spise a Mule" Mechanical Bank

A serious collector of mechanical banks should enjoy this fine specimen! A recent acquisition from an estate, it is in "as found" condition and is as good as they get! It is in perfect working condition, with no replacement parts. The patent date on the base is Apr. 27, 1897. We did put a drop of oil on the mule turning mechanism because it was stiff from years of no use. We would rate the paint on this bank as an 8-8 ½ on a 1-10 scale, 10 being perfect. There were two versions of this bank; ours is the "boy on a bench" version. Dimensions of the bank are: 5 7/8" tall to the top of the mules ears, 10" long, and 2 15/16" wide. If you have been looking to upgrade your own "Always Did 'Spise a Mule bank or are a collector looking to add this to your collection, this is one to be proud of!

Please be patient for eleven larger pictures to download!

1897 J.E. Stevens "Always Did 'Spise a Mule" Mechanical Bank

It is in "as found" condition and works perfectly, with no replacement parts. We did put a drop of oil on the mule turning mechanism because it was stiff from years of no use.

We would rate the paint on this bank as an 8-8 1/2 on a 1-10 scale, 10 being perfect.

The slot for coins is underneath the boy on the bench. To deposit your money, you put a coin in the slot in the back of the bench. When the mule kicks him over it drops the coin down into the bank.

There are 2 versions of this bank; ours is the "boy on a bench" version.

The back of the horse.

Top view.

"Always Did 'Spise a Mule" is embossed on the grassy base of the bank.

The base of the bank.

The patent date on the base is Apr. 27, 1897.

Dimensions of the bank are: 5 7/8" tall to the top of the mule's ears, 10" long, and 2 15/16" wide.

Go to the HOME PAGE of Southwest Spirit Antiques.