-Presto Bank- mechanical bank c. 1892

The "Presto Bank" is a cast iron mechanical bank attributed to the Kyser & Rex Company, dating back to 1892. This small, detailed model of a bank building is painted in red and gold, and features a coin slot, a hinged door, and a mechanism that makes the "presto" sound when a coin is dropped in. This piece is a fine example of American folk art and a nostalgic reminder of the simple pleasures of childhood savings. The bank is now part of the collection at the Minneapolis Institute of Art.