Darktown Battery mechanical bank circa 1888 painted cast-iron body with pitcher that throws a coin into the catcher receptacle upon pressing button; underside marked: PATD. JAN 17, 1888; and EEB2 1875 PAT. (Good working order and original condition; retaining approximately 70% of the original finish). H7" W9 3/4" D2 3/4" The "Darktown Battery" banks depict the popular American game of baseball played by the newly formed Negro baseball league. Designed and patented by James H. Bowen of Philadelphia, PA on January 17, 1888 and later manufactured by J & E Stevens Company of Cromwell, CT. They are the only known banks to depict baseball in their design; as well as being only one of two cast-iron banks which have three stationary figures with each having movable parts as part of their mechanical action. The "Darktown Battery" mechanical banks with their vibrant colorations, rare subject matter, full-action, are considered to be some of the finest banks ever made and are prized by collectors today.