Presented here is an outstanding, all‑original example of the elusive Bill E. Grin Mechanical Bank, designed around 1915 by New York inventor John W. Schmitt and manufactured by the renowned J. & E. Stevens Company of Cromwell, Connecticut. Known for its whimsical yet slightly eerie character design, the bank reflects the early 20th‑century fascination with mischievous holiday imagery—very much in the spirit of period Halloween and Christmas decorations.
The mechanism is simple but delightfully surprising: slide a coin into the slot atop Bill’s head, and his long tongue shoots out from his upturned mouth. This playful, slightly grotesque action made the bank memorable for children of the era and highly desirable among today’s mechanical bank collectors.
This example is completely original, with no chips, cracks, or repairs, and retains an impressive 80–85% of its untouched original paint—a rarity, as most surviving Bill E. Grin banks have been repainted. The surface shows a rich, honest patina and a strong first paint layer, making it a standout piece for collectors who value authenticity and condition.
A scarce and charming Stevens mechanical bank, this Bill E. Grin offers both historical significance and exceptional originality—an excellent addition to any advanced collection of antique mechanical banks or early American toys.
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