Unknown manufacturer, prob. West German 1960s-1970s (12.5cm)

In the United States we once had a strong tradition of giving small ceramic savings banks to children so they could save their coins from the Tooth Fairy, parents for doing chores or any lucky finds (there is nothing so irresistible to a child than a shiny coin on a sidewalk). As most of these banks were shaped as pigs, we just called any savings bank a “piggy bank.” Germany, however, had other ideas. Unlike Americans, German manufacturers didn’t feel limited to one form – they made banks in ANY form, from pigs to pyramids to cans to dogs to bears to elephants to people, and many more. It is therefore no surprise the German word for a savings bank is spardose, or “money box,” a word which nicely encompasses any creative expression of the concept. The Mid-Century pony here is a fine example of that creativity – no boring white pig here! His vivid orange coat, seemingly at odds with his modest expression, hides a very secure compartment which I am sure spent decades filled with pfennigs and perhaps even Euro coins before making its way to me. Who knows what the coins faithfully added over time to this fine equine were used for? Candy? Toys? Ice cream? Whatever the purchase, I am sure this little horse added joy to many a child’s life for a very long time – a wonderful legacy for a fun and functional piece like this.