J E Stevens Chief Big Moon Cast Iron Mechanical Bank Frog Pond Bailey 1899
J E Stevens Chief Big Moon Cast Iron Mechanical Bank Frog Pond Bailey 1899
J E Stevens Chief Big Moon Cast Iron Mechanical Bank Frog Pond Bailey 1899
J E Stevens Chief Big Moon Cast Iron Mechanical Bank Frog Pond Bailey 1899
J E Stevens Chief Big Moon Cast Iron Mechanical Bank Frog Pond Bailey 1899
J E Stevens Chief Big Moon Cast Iron Mechanical Bank Frog Pond Bailey 1899
J E Stevens Chief Big Moon Cast Iron Mechanical Bank Frog Pond Bailey 1899
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J E Stevens Chief Big Moon Cast Iron Mechanical Bank Frog Pond Bailey 1899

$150.00
$150.00
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This charming and highly collectible cast iron mechanical bank is the celebrated “Chief Big Moon” bank, designed by Charles A. Bailey and manufactured by the J. & E. Stevens Company of Cromwell, Connecticut, circa 1899. Stamped “U.S.A. 1898” on the base, this bank is a classic example of Stevens’ imaginative late-19th-century mechanical designs.

The scene features Chief Big Moon seated beside a pond, holding a fish, while a frog waits nearby. To operate the bank, a coin is placed into the slot at the front edge of the pond. When the lever is pressed, the frog springs forward toward the fish, depositing the coin into the bank in a lively and engaging action that remains one of the most whimsical Stevens mechanisms.

This example is in working condition. The frog action functions properly; however, one of the guide slots for the pin beneath the pond area is broken, causing the pin to move slightly forward. As a result, the mechanism works reliably but occasionally requires the frog/pond assembly to be lined up correctly before activation. This condition is fully disclosed and typical of cast iron banks that have survived more than a century.

Finished in original hand-painted colors—green base, red and green side decoration, blue pond, and yellow teepee—this bank measures approximately 10 inches long x 4 inches wide x 5.5 inches tall, offering excellent shelf presence and collector appeal.

⭐ Key Features

  • Authentic J. & E. Stevens Co. cast iron mechanical bank

  • Titled Chief Big Moon, designed by Charles A. Bailey

  • Stamped U.S.A. 1898, produced circa 1899

  • Frog-and-pond mechanical action with coin slot at pond front

  • Frog springs forward toward fish to deposit coin

  • Original hand-painted finish with strong surviving color

  • Working mechanism with noted alignment sensitivity

  • Approximate dimensions: 10” L x 4” W x 5.5” H

📦 Condition
Good – Original paint with wear, chips, and patina consistent with age and use. Mechanism operates, though one guide slot beneath the pond is broken, requiring occasional alignment for proper action. No major cracks or structural repairs observed. Honest wear enhances its antique character.

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