The surface of the cast iron is a tell tale sign of age and authenticity when assessing a mechanical bank. Cast iron from the turn of the century has a smooth surface and highly detailed forms cast in the iron. While mechanical banks are popular collectibles, there are many, oh so many, fakes and reproductions..
Moreover, how can you tell if a cast iron bank is real?
Old painted cast iron was usually dipped; not spray painted like new repros. Inspect the paint for brush marks, and look for drip deposits on underside of toy - old toys will exhibit these. When buying cast iron banks, look for paint on both the outer and inner edges of the slot.
Furthermore, how much are cast iron banks worth? About Cast Iron Mechanical Banks Some of the rarest and most desirable sell for well over $10,000 and a few even top the amazing sum of $100,000. Even banks with paint wear can be valuable, and the paint should never be touched up on these cast iron pieces.
In this way, how do I know if my Hubley is real?
Pick up the doorstop, if possible, and feel the metal. Authentic Hubleys will feel smooth to the touch, not rough or bumpy. The quality of the metalwork on Hubley items was high and attention was paid to detail. Examine the casting seams, which should be tight, and the screws, which should be slotted screws.
How can you tell if old cast iron toys are new?
New cast iron generally has small prickly bumps that rise above the surface and holes or pits that go below the surface (Figs. 5-6). The rough texture is the most obvious on unpainted surfaces so try to look on the inside or underside of toys.
Related Question Answers
Are old piggy banks worth money?
If your antique coin bank is in good condition and made from redware or chalkware, you're in luck. Those materials are often the most valuable due to their fragility. Regardless of the material, banks produced between 1870-1930 are thought to be worth the most.How can you tell if Hubley is cast iron?
Look closely at the doorstop to determine if it is made from two molded pieces of iron or one. If two, flip the doorstop around or over to see how the pieces are held together. An old, original doorstop should have a slotted screw rather than a Phillips head screw, which is newer.What is Hubley cast iron?
Hubley Cast Iron Doorstops Some doorstops, usually those with a curved casting, were marked “HUBLEY.” Others have a number incised in the iron, which is common with flower baskets, but many can be found unmarked as well.How do you clean old cast iron toys?
Add a few drops of mild dishwashing liquid to a small plastic bowl and fill with warm water. Avoid using dishwasher or washing machine detergent, as they are too harsh for your toy. Dip a soft cloth into the soapy water. Wash away dirt and grime from your toy, being careful not to wipe too hard or vigorously.When were cast iron toys made?
Early on (18090-1935), the toys were mostly made by the cast iron process. The cast iron process involves melting iron along with some other metals. It's then poured into a mold (cast), allowed to cool, and then the cooled part is separated from the mold. The earlier models were made in 2 parts - a left and right.Where was the Hubley toy factory?
Hubley Banks & Toys Hubley Manufacturing Company began operation in 1894 and was located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. They expanded their basic line of toys in the 1920s to include bookends, ashtrays, and doorstops.What is a still bank?
Definition of still bank. : a bank (as in the shape of an animal) with a slot for coins — compare mechanical bank. 
