Lot 34: J. & E. Stevens Co., "I Always Did 'Spise a Mule" Mechanical Bank
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An antique late 19th-century mechanical bank manufactured by the J. & E. Stevens Co. of Cromwell, Connecticut, based on the 1879 patent. Known as the “I Always Did ‘Spise a Mule” kicking mule version, the piece is constructed from hand-painted polychrome cast iron. The design depicts a mule reared on its front legs over a seated figure; the mechanism is designed to rotate the mule to kick the figure and deposit a coin into the base. No factory marks are present. Height: 18 cm.
Condition report:
The item shows extensive and heavy paint loss throughout, with significant areas of the base metal exposed, displaying surface oxidisation and a dark patina. No obvious cracks or professional repairs are visible. The coin trap door is missing from the underside. The internal mechanical components have not been tested for functionality or completeness; the item is sold for spares or repairs. Two modern inventory labels are adhered to the base.
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