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Up for sale is a rare and highly collectible Antique Cast Iron \"Sport\" Safe Deposit Still Bank, manufactured in Frankford, PA by Kyser & Rex Co. and patented January 8, 1882.Measuring approximately 3\" H x 2.25\" W x 2.25\" D and weighing 9.7 oz, this miniature safe bank features stunning Victorian relief castings on all six surfaces:Front: Marked \"SPORT\" above a boy training his dog near a tree, complete with keyhole.Sides: One side depicts an elephant with a rider under palm trees; the opposite side depicts a mother and baby giraffe.Back: Features a coin slot over a boy jumping a dog through a hoop by a doghouse.Top & Bottom: Relief animal motifs on top; lattice fretwork with patent date \"PAT. JANY 8 1882\" on the underside.Construction & Assembly: Constructed using interlocking slotted tongue-and-groove side plates stabilized by a single vertical center tension rod pinned/bolted at the top and bottom. Turning or loosening the bottom screw releases pressure on the plates, allowing the front door to open and close, but unlocking the bolt unless done carefully will cause the walls to collapse as designed.Condition: Excellent original, unrestored antique condition. Features aged japanned/lacquered ground finish with traces of original cold-painted bronze/gold highlights in the recessed lattice and relief detail. No cracks, splits, repairs, or modern touch-ups. Castings remain crisp and sharp with tight-fitting original seams. (Key not included).Origin: Frankford (Philadelphia), Pennsylvania, USA (Kyser & Rex Co.)Age: Circa 1882–1890s (Patented January 8, 1882)Material: Cast Iron (Japanned finish with original cold-painted bronze highlights)Authenticity Assessment
This piece appears to be original Kyser & Rex manufacture from 1882. Physical examination confirms all major period-authentic markers:
Casting Quality & Seams: Fine, thin-wall American casting with tight, hand-fitted tongue-and-groove side seams typical of late 19th-century Philadelphia foundries. Modern recasts exhibit thick metal walls, grainy sand pits, and sloppy panel gaps.
Text & Lettering: Underside lettering \"PAT. JANY 8 1882\" and front lettering \"SPORT\" are sharply raised with clean edges. Re-casts feature soft, washed-out typography due to mold shrinkage.
Assembly Hardware: Correct vertical internal tension post with authentic period slotted screw head/peened rivet.
Patina & Finish: Authentic dark oxidized japanning with genuine surface iron oxidation and micro-faking of original bronze highlights in deep recesses. No synthetic black spray paint or artificial aging compounds present.
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Item Description and Condition Disclaimer
We take great care in researching, identifying, and describing each antique item to the best of our ability, drawing on available resources and hands-on examination. However, as dedicated enthusiasts rather than professional appraisers or certified experts, we cannot offer guarantees on authenticity, age, origin, or precise valuation. We strongly recommend that buyers perform their own due diligence, including consulting reference materials or experts, and thoroughly examine the accompanying photographs. These images are an essential component of our listing and depict the item\'s actual condition, including any visible flaws, wear, or imperfections consistent with its antique nature. It is the buyer\'s responsibility to inspect each lot and form their own assessment on condition, description and authenticity before purchasing. All items have signs of wear commensurate with age and usage. The lack of statement regarding condition does not imply that the item is in perfect condition or free from any and all defects. If you have any questions regarding the condition of the items, please ask and we will be more than happy to answer and/or provide additional photos as requested.
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