Musical Banks
Starting in the late 19th century, musical banks added a charming tune to the thrill of saving, with early examples like Kyser & Rex’s Organ Bank. From wind-up German creations to American nursery rhyme banks, these melodic marvels delighted generations of savers.
Musical Banks: Saving Money with a Song and a Smile
Beginning in the late 19th century, several manufacturers began producing musical banks, which combined mechanical action with a musical tune. The Organ Bank, produced by Kyser & Rex, is an example of a bank that combines both elements.
As time went on, other banks were produced, especially in Europe, that played music when a coin was inserted. Most of these banks were operated by a wind-up mechanism, while others by turning a crank. This trend continued into the early- and mid-20th century.
There are many musical savings banks that have been produced over the years. Some of the more popular European examples included the Symphonium Musical Savings Bank, the Music Box Savings Bank, the Musical Church Savings Bank, and Musical Cupid at the Piano, each of which was made in Germany; and the Regina Bank, which was a companion to the Symphonium, and Musical Nursery Rhyme Bank, made in the USA.