This High Grade Lion Hunter Mechanical Bank, produced circa 1911, is one of the rarest and most historically significant cast‑iron mechanical banks created by the J. & E. Stevens Company of Cromwell, Connecticut. Designed by master sculptor Charles A. Bailey, the bank depicts President Theodore Roosevelt on safari, commemorating his famous African big‑game expedition following his presidency.
Often considered the lesser‑known companion to the more common Teddy and the Bear bank, the Lion Hunter holds strong crossover appeal among collectors of patriotic Americana, political and presidential memorabilia, sporting antiques, and Stevens mechanical banks. Its subject matter, sculptural detail, and scarcity make it one of the most desirable Roosevelt‑themed mechanical banks ever produced.
This example is in superb original condition, retaining over 90% of its original paint along with its distinctive mica flake surface, which adds sparkle and depth to the finish. The bank features excellent mechanical action, functions flawlessly, and includes its original coin trap—a component often missing on surviving examples. It shows no chips, cracks, repairs, or touch‑ups, making it an investment‑grade piece.
Collectors prize this bank for its:
Strong association with Theodore Roosevelt’s 1909–1910 African safari
Scarcity in high‑grade, all‑original condition
Crisp casting and vibrant original paint
Perfect mechanical performance
Crossover appeal across multiple collecting categories
This outstanding example, ex‑Haley Collection, is rarely encountered on the open market, and finding another in such immaculate, fully working condition would be exceptionally difficult.
A true centerpiece for any advanced collection of mechanical banks, Roosevelt memorabilia, or early 20th‑century Americana.
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