Still Banks

Toy Savings Banks with no moving parts or mechanical mechanism


What are Still Banks?

More than just a container to hold coins – they are a nostalgic symbol of thrift. Unlike mechanical banks, which feature moving parts and animated actions, still banks are simple objects with a single purpose: to encourage saving. Featuring a coin slot but no mechanical mechanism, these banks were produced in a near endless variety of forms and materials.

Collecting Categories

Still Banks come in many shapes and sizes. The subject, form, manufacturer, material and time frame an item was produced are just some of the many categories people may use to organize their collection. It is a matter of personal preference and there is no “wrong” way to collect.

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Books on Banks

A good reference book is an invaluable resource, especially for a new collector. There have been several excellent books published on the subject of Still Banks, or that include Still Banks in them. Some may be very broad in the types of banks they include while others are very specific and only focus on a particular style or manufacturer.

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References & Research Aids

In addition to books on banks there are other resources, many available online, to accomplish your own research. You can learn who designed or patented a particular bank, the companies who produced them, and the purpose or event for which it was first made.

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Explore Our Articles

  • “Saving Sam” and the Western Auto Supply Company

    The entrepreneurial businessman George Pepperdine (1886-1962) created the automobile accessories mail-order sales company Western Auto Supply in Kansas in 1909. He sold part of his interests in 1916 and moved to California to establish the company Western Auto Supply of Los Angeles. After the launch of Western Auto Supply in Los Angeles, Pepperdine commissioned…

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  • The ‘Still Bank Blog’ is LIVE!

    My first Website, SafeBankCollector.com, was created almost 10 years ago. At the time I was in the process of writing my book on cast iron safe banks. That first website was very helpful in that it allowed me to organize information to assist with mapping out the book. When the book finally went to…

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