Vintage Swimming Pool Fund Novelty Jar / Coin Bank
Unbranded (likely an import novelty item from brands such as Ganz or Russ Berrie) · Collectibles & Antiques > Novelty Items
Era / Decade
1980s-1990s based on the 'gag gift' style, resin molding detail, and font used on the lettering.
Material
Cast resin figure, cork stopper, and glazed ceramic pot. The figure has hand-painted details.
Condition
Good. The ceramic pot and cork appear intact. There is visible paint wear/scuffing on the figure's shoulder and hose. No major cracks or chips are visible, but the paint finish is aged.
Demand Level
Niche. This appeals to collectors of 'Kitsch' and 'Grandpa humor' or as a gag gift for someone installing a pool.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $8.00 | Mid: $15.00 | High: $22.00
Estimated Retail Value
$10.00 - $15.00
Comparable Sales
Similar novelty resin/ceramic coin banks typically sell for $12-$20 on eBay. 'Swimming Pool Fund' specific items have a steady but low-volume turnover.
Description
Humorous vintage 'Swimming Pool Fund' novelty coin bank featuring an elderly man in swim trunks sitting in a tiny inflatable pool while holding a hose and a drink. The piece consists of a blue glazed ceramic pot with a cork stopper topped with a highly detailed, hand-painted resin figurine. A classic example of mid-to-late 20th-century 'Dad humor' giftware.
Key Features
Humorous/Gag gift appeal; kitschy 'pool fund' theme; two-piece construction with functional cork stopper; unique shelf-sitter aesthetic.
Authenticity Indicators
Likely a mass-produced novelty item; checking the bottom for a 'Made in Taiwan' or 'Made in China' gold foil sticker would confirm era. Confidence: High (Generic novelty).
Flaws to Note
Paint loss on the figure (shoulders, hose, and feet); grime buildup in crevices requiring gentle cleaning; potential dryness/brittleness of the vintage cork.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay or Etsy (under 'Vintage Gag Gifts'). Facebook Marketplace for a quick local sale to avoid shipping risks.
Selling Tips
Market this using keywords like 'Kitsch,' 'Gag Gift,' and 'Retirement Gift.' Clean the resin figure with a dry soft brush to remove dust from crevices. Ship carefully with plenty of bubble wrap as the resin figure is brittle and the ceramic pot is heavy.