Solid cast iron Darktown Battery mechanical bank designed and patented by James H. Bowen of Philadelphia, later manufactured by J. & E. Stevens. Stereotypical images aside, the dwindling number of these legendary collectible banks have made them an obsession. “Darktown Battery” on raised lettering, painted red, on front of podium with two baseball bats design. “Pat. Feb 2, 1875” engraved on bottom. Chipping to the paint on the players and top of bank just adds to its vintage nature. Restored, with the original paint about 80%, it still works like a dream, firing coins into the catcher's belly with complete reliability. Base is 9.25" long, 2" wide. Masterful ironworking from a long-gone time.