WHAT: An early cast iron, tin and cloth Zig-Zag bank soared to $210,000 recently when Bertoia Auctions sold a private collection of early toys and banks.
MORE: The Santa-themed bank with original cloth figure is a rare survivor. Other banks sold for more, but this bank generated the most interest.
SMART COLLECTORS KNOW: Early cast iron banks are either mechanical (have moving parts) or still (no movement). Mechanical banks generally bring highest prices.
HOT TIP: Cast iron banks have been reproduced from the beginning. Beware of fakes; they are common. And some are very good. Others are fantasies. Not copies, they are made to deceive.
BOTTOM LINE: Part I of the collectorβs auction sold for $3.1 million. Part II brought almost $3 million. Collections built by discerning collectors are almost always known to fellow collectors. When they finally go to sale, bidding is furious.
