Mid-Century Modern Silverplated Brass Duck Piggy Bank by Hans Bunde for Carl M. Cohr
Decorative Object / Still Bank · Carl M. Cohr (Cohr Sølv) of Fredericia, Denmark; designed by Hans Bunde. Renowned for high-quality modernist silver and silverplate since 1860.
Pattern: Hans Bunde Animal Series, specifically the Stylized Duck, introduced circa 1950s.
Type
Decorative Object / Still Bank
Maker
Carl M. Cohr (Cohr Sølv) of Fredericia, Denmark; designed by Hans Bunde. Renowned for high-quality modernist silver and silverplate since 1860.
Material
Silverplated brass. The base metal is yellow brass (visible in worn areas or the stamp), electroplated with a layer of sterling-grade silver.
Dimensions
Standard size is approximately 10-12 cm in length. Weight is substantial due to the solid brass core, typically around 300-400 grams.
Description
A quintessential example of Danish Mid-Century Modern design, this duck bank by Hans Bunde transforms a utilitarian child's object into a sophisticated piece of sculpture. Its aerodynamic, zoomorphic form captures the essence of a duck with effortless curves and a mirror-like silver surface.
Key Features
Substantial weight, integrated lobed feet, keyed bottom plate, and the iconic Bunde 'long-beak' profile.
Material & Composition
Silverplated brass. The base metal is yellow brass (visible in worn areas or the stamp), electroplated with a layer of sterling-grade silver.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish. Minimalist, sleek design characteristic of Danish Modernism. No engraving or chasing; form is the primary decorative element.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'COHR BRASS' and 'DENMARK' on the underside. Includes a square locking plate with a keyhole; often features the 'ATLA' mark if part of their specialized silverplate line.
Construction Details
Cast brass body that has been precision machined and buffed to a seamless finish before electroplating. Features a flush-mounted metal base plate for coin removal.
Functional Features
Coin slot located on the upper back; removable keyed closure on the bottom (currently missing key in many vintage examples).
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; the piece is a freestanding sculptural object supported by four integrated rounded lobed feet.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial craftsmanship of the highest order; the precision of the bottom plate fit and the perfectly smooth curvatures of the cast body demonstrate Cohr's technical mastery.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font depth in the 'COHR BRASS' stamp, seamless casting transitions, and appropriate age-related wear on the bottom contact points.
Origin & Manufacturing
Fredericia, Denmark. Manufactured at the Cohr factory, which was the largest silver producer in Denmark during the mid-20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (c. 1950-1960). Indicators include the organic 'tear-drop' shape and lack of superfluous ornamentation.
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1965. The specific 'COHR BRASS' stamp is indicative of their post-war export production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift from ornate Victorian savings banks to the 'Organic Modernism' that defined Scandinavian design and influenced global taste in the 1950s.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The silverplate appears mostly intact but shows some typical micro-scratching. The bottom plate shows minor oxidation. The key is likely missing from this specific unit.
Value Estimate
$150 - $350 USD depending on condition, presence of the original key, and clarity of the silverplate.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a non-abrasive silver foam like Wright's. Avoid over-polishing which can wear through the silver to the brass. Store in a soft cloth to prevent silver sulfide tarnish.
Similar Pieces
Georg Jensen silver animals; Kay Bojesen wooden figures; Christofle silverplate piggy banks (which tend to be more representational/round).
Interesting Facts
Hans Bunde was a silversmith for Cohr who designed many of their most famous hollowware pieces; his animal figures are now highly sought after by MCM collectors worldwide.