What's it worth? Appraisal of Katzenjammer mechanical bank
Share Article Mike asks:
Auction Wally, I recently purchased an item on ebay. Link and Item # below.
This item was purchased knowing that it was a reproduction however we, (my Wife and I) are unclear of its age, value and background information. Based on the pics and information contained in the link I have provided can you please give me your best appraisal value including any and all documentation or reference links availble on the net?
We have 7 days to return this if we choose.
We look forward to hearing from you at the soonest. Thanks, Mike
Here is the ebay item # 360232046212
Link: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=360232046212&ru=http%3A%2F%2Fshop.ebay.com%3A80%2F%3F_from%3DR40%26_trksid%3Dp4712.m38.l1313%26_nkw%3D360232046212%26_sacat%3DSee-All-Categories%26_fvi%3D1&_rdc=1
AW says: This is an interesting situation. First, let me explain that I do not have a pictue of the actual bank you purchased. Because you provided a link to the eBay listing instead of pictures, I was not able to copy them from eBay as they are protected and I was not able to download them.
No matter, if folks would like to see your bank, they can go to the link, you know what it looks like so we’re all set.
Below is a picture of the ORIGINAL, not your reproduction:
An example of the original sold for $45,000. I’m assuming you purchased this as an investment, and as such, you purchased it at right about, or just a bit under what it’s worth. Although as we know in the antiques market, that is a very subjective term. I feel you could easily get your money back, and perhaps if you found the right customer, could get as much as $600 for the bank, but that may take a while.
If this can be cleaned without damaging it, I think that would be the best way to enhance value. I would try a very soft damp cloth with mild organic soap. If this brightens up a bit, your tacking on $.
Best of luck, it really is a neat bank, and still rare, although a reproduction.
Your bank is circa 1930-50s.
Retail value: $500-$600
Wholesale value: $350-$450
Keywords = Mechanical Bank, reproduction, Mama Katzenjammer,
Here are some reference links as you’ve requested:
http://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/6702601 (This link is to the liveauctioneers page where the original bank sold for $45,000, you may need to become a member and login to see the information)
Other links:
http://www.mechanicalbanks.org/scrapbook/1950s/griffith_pages/58-12-griffith.htm
http://www.basic-antiques.com/miscellaneous-penny-banks.htm
