Collie Dog Bank Appraisal

Ceramic Collie Dog Figural Bank

This item is a ceramic figural bank shaped like a Collie dog, likely a Rough Collie due to its distinctive long coat and facial features. The bank is depicted in a standing pose, facing left. Its coloring is primarily sable and white, characteristic of the breed. The head features a lighter tan or golden hue, particularly around the muzzle and ears, with dark brown or black details for the eyes and nose. The body transitions to a rich sable brown and black, with darker patches suggesting a natural coat pattern, and some lighter areas likely representing the white 'ruff' and perhaps chest or leg markings, though these are not fully visible. The ceramic appears to have a glossy or semi-glossy finish, indicating it is glazed. A slot for inserting coins is clearly visible on the dog's back, a defining feature of a bank. While the overall condition appears good from the visible angles, specific wear, chips, or cracks cannot be fully assessed without additional views. There are no visible manufacturer's marks or signatures in the provided image. This type of decorative bank was popular from the mid-20th century onwards as a novelty item or collectible, often found in styles ranging from detailed realism to more stylized interpretations. The craftsmanship appears to be of a mass-produced standard, with molded details defining the dog's form and coat texture. The estimated age is likely mid-to-late 20th century.