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In the world of collectibles, miniature coin banks crafted from everyday objects have gained a significant following. These creative pieces, often resembling toys, have become a popular choice for both enthusiasts and casual collectors alike.
One such collector is Ben Kriner, who owns an Emerson television bank, a promotional giveaway that resembles Emerson's model 648 Ultrawave television, introduced around 1950. Kriner displayed this unique piece at the Allentown toy show last year. The Emerson television bank, made in the U.S. by Ardee, features a coin slot on the top and includes an on-off-volume knob and a knob for changing channels, adding a touch of realism to the miniature replica. The box depicts a family gathered around the TV with an arrow pointing to a picture of a clown, suggesting inserting a favourite picture.
Another fascinating piece in Kriner's collection is the typewriter bank, which is four inches wide. This bank, made by Ardee, has a coin slot on the top and the front top reads, "My own typewriter bank." The typewriter bank may have been a promotional giveaway for banks, much like the Emerson television bank.
The cost of the typewriter bank ranges from $10 to around $30, with the exception of the radio bank, for which Kriner paid $60. Interestingly, the collection does not include a piggy bank, as one might initially assume.
For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, bamboo coin banks are a popular DIY project. These eco-friendly banks are carved from bamboo tubes or containers, resulting in unique, artistic pieces. TikTok offers numerous videos detailing custom design and carving techniques, providing inspiration and step-by-step guidance.
Hard rubber wood and acrylic piggy banks are also available commercially. One such example is a piggy bank made from hard rubber wood with a 2mm thick clear acrylic lens that lets children see their savings grow. These decorative banks can be personalized and are marketed as functional and fun for kids.
For those interested in viewing or acquiring a collection of such miniature coin banks, Wayfair offers various decorative piggy banks made from everyday materials like wood and acrylic, some designed as animals or personalized initials, and suitable as gifts for children.
Douglas R. Kelly, the editor of Marine Technology magazine, has written extensively on the subject, with his byline appearing in Antiques Roadshow Insider, Back Issue, Diecast Collector, RetroFan, and Buildings magazines.
Whether you're a collector, a DIY enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates unique and creative pieces, miniature coin banks offer a fascinating and engaging way to explore the world of collectibles.
- Ben Kriner's collection also includes a typewriter bank, a miniature replica that serves as a promotional item, much like the Emerson television bank.
- In addition to collectibles, one can engage in DIY projects, such as bamboo coin banks, which are eco-friendly and can be custom designed through tutorials found on TikTok.
- For those who prefer to purchase ready-made banks, Wayfair offers a variety of decorative piggy banks, including ones made from everyday materials and designed as animals or personalized initials, perfect as gifts for children.
