-Humpty Dumpty- mechanical bank c. 1882

This cast iron mechanical bank, titled "-Humpty Dumpty-", was created by Charles G. Shepard around 1882 and is currently housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. The bank is in the form of a clown with a large, exaggerated smile, wearing a colorful costume. When a coin is dropped into the slot in his mouth, his arm swings out and catches the coin, embodying the playful nature of childhood savings. The bank is a testament to the popularity of mechanical toys in the late 19th century, and its vibrant colors and playful design continue to capture the imagination of viewers today.