Bing Brothers Metal Works

Founded in 1863 by brothers Ignaz and Adolf Bing, Gebrüder Bing grew from a metalware firm in Germany to a renowned toy manufacturer. Their intricate mechanical tin banks and toy catalogues left a lasting mark on the golden age of toy making before the company closed during the Great Depression.
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Gebrüder Bing: From Metalware to Mechanical Marvels

Brothers Ignaz and Adolf Bing stated working together in the 1860s, established the firm, originally known as Gebruder Bing, in Nuremburg, Germany, in1863. Initially, they focused on producing metalware, primarily kitchen utensils as well as weight and measurement equipment, primarily tape measures and dials.

As they became successful, they expanded production and began making toys in the 1880s. Soon they became known for their toy trains, ships, cars and trams, in addition to a variety of other types of electrical equipment.

They began producing “money boxes” in the early 1890s, and issued a toy catalog in 1895, with illustrations of 3,000 different types of toys, including many that were produced by them as well as other manufacturers.

Most of the banks that appeared in their catalogs were still banks. However, they produced at least one vending bank collection, and soon began to produce several mechanical tin banks, most of which did not survive over time.

Among the mechanical tin banks that Bing produced were the Woodpecker Bank, the Tower with Cannon, Girl Feeding Geese, Dueling Knights at Castle, Man in the Garden, Man Watering in his Garden, Chimney Sweep, and the Weightlifter.

Unfortunately, the company was unable too survive the Great Depression and went out of business during the 1920s.